Transverse Impact Responses and Failure Mechanism of 3D Braided Composites by Mesostructure Model

This article aims to establish a full-size mesostructure model of three-dimensional (3D) braided composites based on the real structural characteristics, to explore the transverse impact response characteristics and failure mechanism of 3D braided composites at different impact speeds. The results showed that four stress wave cycles were applied on the composite and decreased gradually. The corresponding displacement, peak load, and energy absorption capacity were investigated. All the values increased with the increase of impact velocity. In addition, the stress propagation features into length, width, and thickness directions of composite were distinctly different. Finally, the failure modes and damage morphologies were examined to reveal the failure mechanism of 3D braided composite under transverse impact loading.