The Low Velocity Impact Properties of Multiaxial Three Dimensional (3D) Woven Composites

Abstract:

The integrated structure and remarkable thickness values of 3D woven fabrics provide their composites with outstanding properties such as high fracture toughness, advanced damage tolerance, high impact energy absorption capacity, etc. However, the orientation of the yarn groups through the thickness direction of the fabric degrades the in-plane mechanical properties of 3D woven fabrics/composites. This phenomenon led to the development of multi-axial 3D woven fabrics. Due to the advanced weaving methods, the bias warp yarns can be incorporated into the 3D woven structure. Previous studies have shown that the bias warp yarns significantly improve the in-plane shear properties of 3D woven fabrics/composites. On the other hand, the impact properties of multi-axial 3D woven composites have not been extensively studied. In this study, the low velocity impact properties of multiaxial 3D woven composites were investigated. First, the composites were impacted at impact energy levels of 20J, 45J and 55J. The damaged specimens were then tested at the 300J impact energy level to determine the effect of the woven fabric architecture on the impact properties and damage mechanisms of the composites. In addition, the 3D warp interlock woven and conventional laminated composites were fabricated and tested for comparative study. From the research study, it was concluded that the biased warp yarns distribute the impact energy more homogeneously to the other parts of the composite. Therefore, multiaxial 3D woven composites can absorb more impact energy than 3D warp interlock woven and laminated composites. The results obtained make multiaxial 3D woven fabrics and their composites one of the best solutions for impact applications among the current fabric technologies.

• Periodical: Advances in Science and Technology (Volume 171)
• Pages: 205-210
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-WbX8MY
• Online since: December 2025
• Authors: Mehmet Korkmaz, Ahmad Rashed Labanieh, Xavier Legrand, François Boussu*
• Keywords: Impact Energy Absorption, Low Velocity Impact Test, Multiaxial 3D Weaving

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