Prediction and adjustment of elastic properties in three‐dimensional orthogonal woven composites through dual‐scale modeling

Abstract Three‐dimensional (3D) orthogonal woven composites can overcome the drawback of weak interlaminar strengths in traditional laminated composites and exhibit excellent resistance to out‐of‐plane impact, however, the significant difference in properties in the in‐plane orthogonal direction will limit the potential range of application thereof. Predicting elastic properties and exploring methods of adjustment are therefore of paramount importance. Using computed tomography (CT) scanning to obtain detailed parameter models, a corresponding dual‐scale model of microscopic representative volume element (RVE) and mesoscopic RVE was established, and the accuracy of the model was experimentally validated, which can predict the elastic properties of materials. In addition, the influences of the yarn fiber volume fraction and weaving distance on elastic properties were evaluated using the elastic modulus visualization method, and a formula integrating these two factors is provided for adjustment of the in‐plane orthogonal Young's modulus. Highlights Experimentally validated microscale and mesoscale RVE models were established. The influences of factors on elastic properties were visualized. The relationship between Young's modulus and influencing factors was derived. A reliable strategy for adjusting the in‐plane Young's modulus was proposed.