A review of numerical models for 3D woven composite reinforcements

In recent years, a new class of composite reinforcements has gained considerable attention: 3D woven fabrics. Their advantages in terms of reducing preforming steps and their resistance to impact and delamination have been clearly proven. However, relationships between fabric structure and composite properties are still largely unknown. Numerical models on different length scales were developed that capture the mechanical behavior of fabrics and their composites. This paper reviews models for 3D woven fabrics in the dry state and discusses results that were achieved with parametric studies. Special attention is given to the determination of the initial configuration of the 3D woven fabric model. The multi-filament character of yarns is best depicted with meso-scale approaches that describe the sub-yarn behavior with realistic models. Developed models can be used for further investigations, e.g. the optimization of fabric structure and forming processes.