A meso-scale finite element model for simulating free-edge effect in carbon/epoxy textile composite

Textile composites are well known for their excellent through thickness properties and impact resistance. In this study, a representative unit cell model of a triaxial braided composite is developed based on the composite fiber volume ratio, specimen thickness and microscopic image analysis. A meso-scale finite element (FE) mesh is generated based on the detailed unit cell dimensions and fiber bundle geometry parameters. The fiber bundles are modeled as unidirectional fiber reinforced composites. A micromechanical finite element model was developed to predict the elastic and strength material properties of each unidirectional composite by imposing correct boundary conditions that can simulate the actual deformation within the braided composite. These details are then applied in the meso-mechanical finite element model for a 0°/+60°/-60° triaxially braided T700s/E862 carbon/epoxy composite. Model correlations are conducted by comparing numerical predicted and experimental measured axial tension and transverse tension response of a straight-sided, single-layer (one ply thick) coupon. By applying a periodic boundary condition in the loading direction, the meso model captures the local damage initiation and global failure behavior, as well as the periodic free-edge warping effect. The failure mechanisms are studied using the field damage initiation contours and local stress history. The influence of free-edge effect on the failure behaviors is investigated. The numerical study results reveal that this meso model is capable of predicting free-edge effect and allows identification of its impact on the composite response.