Implementation of multiscale modeling and failure mechanism in investigating load bearing capacity of 3D integrated multi-cellular knitted composites

Load bearing capacity analysis of E-glass/epoxy composites reinforced with 3 D integrated multi-cellular weft-knitted spacer fabrics is focused in this paper. Three groups of composite varied in their cross-sectional shapes were prepared via vacuum resin transfer molding. From the experimental three-point bending test, it was found that the structural geometry has significant effect on mechanical performance and energy absorbability of the 3 D composites. Theoretically, based on FEM model, the composites stiffness matrix and Hashin-failure criteria were implemented in a simulated multi-scale model. Good compliance between the experimental and theoretical force-displacement curves suggested good compatibility of the proposed failure-based model.