Bending fatigue performance of three‐dimensional woven composites—A review

Abstract Three‐dimensional woven composites (3DWCs) are gradually used in marine, transportation, military, and other applications owing to their high interlayer properties, load‐bearing capacity, and good near‐net‐shape forming abilities. 3DWCs are often subjected to bending fatigue loads, which negatively affect the lives of structural parts. In this review, typical types of preform structures and their evolution characteristics are described, and the micro‐modeling methods for 3DWCs are discussed. The effect of the warp yarn paths on the bending properties and the preform structure on the bending fatigue properties of 3DWCs are summarized, and the application and current status of microstructural models in the study of bending fatigue properties are summarized. In addition, the bending fatigue mechanical properties, damage evolution process, and modes of failure in 3DWCs are discussed. The study status and development of the fatigue life models of the laminated composites and 3DWCs are summarized, and future research work is prospected. This review may be beneficial to preform structural design and contribute to the study bending fatigue properties of 3DWCs. Highlights The microstructural modeling methods for 3DWCs. Types and variation patterns of 3D woven preform structures are described. Effects of the structure on the bending performance are discussed. Bending fatigue properties of 3DWCs are summarized. The development trends of predicting the lifespans of composites.