Modeling of Failure Mechanisms in Composites With Z-Pins-Damage Validation of Z-Pin Reinforced Co-Cured Composite Laminates.

摘要

The Epoxy Lamina (EL) concept is introduced to explain overall stiffness reduction in Z-pin reinforced composite laminates, as reported by Zhang et al., for a typical 2%-vol fibre content. The concept is applied to a quasi-isotropic laminate, whereby both the softening and strengthening effects are separated out and quantified, based upon experimental data. This study is accompanied by a FEM-based micromechanical addressing of the composite. A set of fibre arrangements is considered so as to match reported laminate properties, looking for a consistent layout to include the Z-pins effect. These treatments fall within linear elastic behaviour, and are essential to a sound study of the upcoming inelastic regime.