SEDL / STP / STP979-EB / STP29133S

Control of Fiber Architecture for Tough Net-Shaped Structural Composites

Ko, FK
Fibrous Materials Research Laboratory, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA

Whyte, DW
Fibrous Materials Research Laboratory, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA

Pastore, CM
Fibrous Materials Research Laboratory, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA

Pages: 9    Published: Jan 1988

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Abstract

A design concept is introduced to address the need for a significant improvement in strength and toughness of composites through control of the fiber architecture. A three-dimensional (3-D) braided structure is used to illustrate the approach. The mechanical properties of the 3-D braid metal matrix and ceramic matrix composites are compared with composites reinforced by various fiber architecture. In order to provide a rational means for the design and control of the microstructure of the fiber architecture, a processing science base has been established by means of a fabric geometry model (FGM) relating material properties, microstructure, fiber architecture, processing parameters, and composite properties.