Efficient numerical models to emulate inherent defects in brittle composites

Extreneous processing associated with brittle composites such as carbon-carbon result in a number of anomolies within the final product that influences its material and mechanical response. If woven prepregs are selected to form the laminate, the parameters associated with the textile architecture become quite important in providing statistical substantiation of processing defects. Through extensive scanning electron microscopy observations of textile features such as weave alignment, crimp angle and crossover debonds are quantified and then incorporated in two dimensional numerical models that reflect in-plane and through-the-thickness response.

Efficient numerical models to emulate inherent defects in brittle composites Conference Paper