Finite element analysis of 3D woven composite T-joints under tensile loading

Delamination was found to be a key factor in the initial non-linear load-displacement responses, for 3D woven composite T-joints under quasi-static tensile pull-out loading. This paper presents a voxel-based method to predict the non-linear response and damage initiation of 3D woven composite T-joints, by incorporating realistic fibre geometry and cohesive zone model (CZM) for meso-scale analysis. A feasibility study was carried out to justify the use of voxel mesh in CZM, as it has been an open research question in modelling composite failure behaviour. Difference from voxel and conformal cohesive models was identified. Recommendation for using voxel mesh in CZM was given. Simulation from the proposed FE models gives good agreement with experimental results for two different types of T-joints in initial stiffness, damage onset mode and initial damage load. This voxel-based method is efficient in modelling delamination and damage initiation of composite structures with complex fibre architecture, for which conformal mesh is not readily available.