Energy absorptions and failure modes of 3D orthogonal hybrid woven composite struck by flat-ended rod

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) orthogonal woven composite has high stiffness, strength, and energy absorption capacity along X, Y, and Z directions because there are no crimps in yarn. This paper presents mechanical behaviors and energy absorptions of the 3D orthogonal hybrid woven composite under transverse impact and quasi-static loading by flat-ended rod. The failure load and energy absorption of the composite increase with the increase in loading rate. The damage morphology of the composite coupon manifests the compression failure in the front side and tension failure in rear side. There are no delaminations in the composite coupons for both quasi-static and impact loading for the existence of Z-yarn in fabric structure. This phenomenon manifests the potential application of the 3D orthogonal woven composite to impact resistance areas. POLYM. COMPOS., 27: 410–416, 2006. © 2006 Society of Plastics Engineers