Establishing Architectural Effects of Variable Binder on 3D Orthogonal Woven Composites: RVE Model and Experiment Validation

In this study, we aim to investigate the parameters associated with the design and analysis of the geometric model of three-dimensional (3D) orthogonal woven fabrics in a formal context. Specifically, how the tensile response of the structure in the warp direction is affected by changing the binder/warp ratios was examined and analyzed. To achieve this, we employed a geometric modeling technique to determine the relevant parameters for 3D orthogonal weaving. 3D fiber-reinforced composites' elastic constants were predicted using a multiscale homogenization technique based on meso-macro homogenization. The predicted elastic constants were compared with experimental data. Numerical simulations are conducted using Abaqus software, exploring different binder to warp ratios. The structural integrity of the fabric is then examined, with a particular focus on the prevention of delamination and the enhancement of mechanical properties through the use of varying binder architectures. The findings will highlight the advantages of the binder effect on the structure, including the controllability and customizability of 3D orthogonal woven designs. Consequently, these flexible 3D orthogonal woven structures can find potential applications in future studies, particularly within the aerospace industry.