In-plane compressive properties of 3D braided jute/epoxy composite honeycombs: Structure-property relationships

To achieve the integrity of the honeycomb structure without interlocking or bonding, a 3D braided honeycomb structure was designed and developed using natural fiber (jute) reinforced epoxy resin. To optimize the in-plane compressive performance of 3D braided composite honeycombs, the effects of resin, unit cell opening angle, and joint wall length on the in-plane compressive strength, deformability, stiffness and energy absorption were investigated. Furthermore, a theoretical model was established between braiding parameters, geometric parameters of honeycomb cell structure, and in-plane compressive modulus. It is found that if 3D braided composite honeycombs are designed for high load-bearing capacity, it is necessary to reduce the resin strain to failure, increase free wall columns, align the angle between the free wall with the main loading direction, or load along the braiding direction. If the design objective is to maximize the energy absorption, the number of cell rows must be maximized. This study establishes the relationship between braiding parameters, honeycomb geometric parameters, and the in-plane compression performance of the 3D braided composite honeycomb, providing a reference for its structural design and performance optimization.