COMPRESSIVE BEHAVIOR OF PLAIN WEAVE LAMINA

An investigation into the micromechanics of a plain weave lamina subje cted to compressive loading is presented. Three dimensional finite ele ments, embodying a realistic description of the spatial variation of t he material properties and yam geometry, are used to model a repetitiv e portion of the plain weave fabric. A detailed examination of the int ernal stresses and strains is carried out. Possible mechanisms causing intra-yarn and inter-yarn failure are described. It is shown that geo metric nonlinear effects alone are not significant in the compression response of plain weaves, but in conjunction with material nonlinearit y precipitate failure. The reduction in strength due to the inclusion of material nonlinearity of the matrix surrounding the yams is found t o be substantial.