Numerical Study of the Influence of the Structural Parameters on the Stress Dissipation of 3D Orthogonal Woven Composites under Low-Velocity Impact

This study investigates the effects of the number of layers, x-yarn (weft) density, and z-yarn (binder) path on the mechanical behavior of E-glass 3D orthogonal woven (3DOW) composites during low-velocity impacts. Meso-level finite element (FE) models were developed and validated for 3DOW composites with different yarn densities and z-yarn paths, providing analyses of stress distribution within reinforcement fibers and matrix, energy absorption, and failure time. Our findings revealed that lower x-yarn densities led to accumulations of stress concentrations. Furthermore, changing the z-yarn path, such as transitioning from plain weaves to twill or basket weaves had a noticeable impact on stress distributions. The research highlights the significance of designing more resilient 3DOW composites for impact applications by choosing appropriate parameters in weaving composite designs.