EFFECT OF 2D AND 3D WOVEN LAMINATE ARCHITECTURES OF UNIDIRECTIONAL POLYPROPYLENE GLASS FIBER COMPOSITE TAPE ON DROP TOWER IMPACT PERFORMANCE

摘要

As thermoplastic composite materials become more attractive to manufacturers due to the faster throughput offered over traditional thermosetting composites, there is an increased need for non-unidirectional pre-forms and tailored laminate construction. Unidirectional thermoplastic composite tapes offer the unique ability to weave laminate structures prior to panel consolidation. This study examined the impact properties of 2D and 3D plain woven laminates constructed from 8 layers of 76.2 mm, 50.8 mm, and 25.4 mm wide thermoplastic tape. The 3-dimensional weave was examined to determine what effect interlocking lamina had on delamination growth relating to impact and fatigue performance. Additional panels impacted included a 2D baseline, a 2/2 twill, and a 3/1 satin woven laminate. Samples were machined with the tup impacting the center of the primary tapes. A ballistic threshold test was conducted on each woven construct and the results are presented. Backlit photography was also used to examine the failure mechanisms associated with the various woven constructs.