Three-dimensional, multiscale homogenization for hybrid woven composites with fiber-matrix debonding

Abstract

Textile composite materials offer superior properties in terms of strength, chemical resistance, and, stiffness among others, compared to traditional materials at the cost of more complex architecture. Their microstructure makes it challenging to predict the mechanical properties necessary for analyzing composite structures. One approach is to homogenize a representative volume element of the composite to obtain effective properties. In the current work, an analytical, three-dimensional, multiscale homogenization for plain-woven hybrid composites, providing the nine orthotropic material constants is developed. Based on a detailed analytical formulation of the geometry, the model takes fiber undulation, tow thickness, and gaps into account. The fill and warp tows are allowed to be of different materials promoting analysis of hybrid composites. Furthermore, debonding of the fiber and matrix material at the microlevel is incorporated. The model is compared to virtual experiments, and a satisfying agreement is reported.