A modelling framework for composites containing 3D reinforcement

Composite materials reinforced with three-dimensionally (3D) woven carbon fibre textiles are investigated and the challenge and the driver for the work is to generate numerical models to predict the mechanical behaviour of these composites. The result of the final modelling stage is near authentic finite element (FE) models of representative volume elements (RVEs) of the composites. They are created by using only a small number of input parameters, such as the size of the RVE, the number of yarns and their mutual interlacing, and the yarn crimp. The FE models may then be utilised for various purposes but are here used to derive homogenised elastic mechanical properties of 3D reinforced composite materials. The correlation between the models and experiments is good, both in terms of details in the architecture and mechanical properties. There are however some deviations that could be explained by the models being more regular than the real material.