Experimental research on the compressive properties of a new type three-dimensional angle-interlock woven composite

Abstract

The new three-dimensional angle-interlock woven UHMWPEF/epoxy composite was prepared by the VARIM method, and its mechanical properties were studied. Specifically, quasi-static and dynamic compression tests were carried out by universal testing machine and split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) apparatus. Stress-strain curves under the quasi-static and high strain rates (800, 1000, 1400, and 1600 s−1) reveal the destructive characteristics of the composite material. The results indicate that the UHWMPEF/epoxy composite is a strain rate sensitive material and shows different levels of sensitivity at various strain rates. In the quasi-static compression test, when the strain rate was increased from 4.2 × 10−4 to 1.4 × 10−3 s−1, the failure load and ultimate strength increased by about 19.1% and 20.1%, respectively, and the failure strain and specific energy absorption decreased by about 1.53% and 6.1%, respectively. In the dynamic compression test, when the strain rate increased from 800 to 1600 s−1, the failure load and ultimate strength increased by about 16% and 15.9%, respectively, and the failure strain and specific energy absorption decreased by about 64.7% and 60.3%, respectively. The failure fracture surface of the specimen under quasi-static compression was at an angle of 40°–45° with the load direction. The matrix fragmentation at the fracture was obvious, and the warp fiber bundle was broken and peeled off from the matrix. The damage of specimen under dynamic compression develops quickly and the deformation process is short, which shows a relatively symmetrical shear fracture failure morphology.