Numerical analysis on the flexural strength of unidirectional CFRTP composites with in-plane fiber bundle waviness

This study focuses on the influence of process-induced fiber bundle waviness (FBW) on the strength of unidirectional carbon fiber-reinforced thermoplastics (CFRTP) composites. Fiber bundle waviness is often observed in manufactured CFRTPs, which deteriorates the mechanical properties and induces the variation in properties. This study numerically investigates the flexural strength reduction of CFRTP with in-plane FBWs using the finite element method considering local fiber angles and local fiber volume fractions. Numerical results are verified by the experimental flexural test results. It is concluded that the present numerical modeling can predict the deterioration in mechanical properties owing to FBW, and the failure modes depend on FBW parameters.