Non-orthogonal constitutive equation for woven fabric reinforced thermoplastic composites

One of the ultimate objectives of this study was to investigate the feasibility of shaping preconsolidated woven FRT (fabric reinforced thermoplastics) using stamp thermo-hydroforming, a new forming method for composite manufacturing. A new constitutive model has been developed based on a homogenization method by considering the microstructures of composites including both the mechanical and structural properties of fabric reinforcement. In particular, the current model aims to account for the effect of the fiber strength difference and orientation on anisotropy and also to simulate shear deformation without significant length change, common in FRT composite forming. For validation purposes, the model was implemented in an explicit dynamic finite element code and tested for in-plane simple shear, pure shear, uniaxial tension, and draping behavior of woven composites.

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