Impact resistance performance of 3D woven TZ800H plates with different textile architecture

Two typical methods commonly used to improve the mechanical properties and impact resistance properties of 3D woven composites are studied, namely weave pattern and layered architectures. The mechanical property and impact resistance performance were studied by utilising the quasi-static compressive test, split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) test and ballistic impact test. The compressive responses in warp and weft directions with different strain rates 0.001, 500 and 1300 s^-1 were presented and analysed, providing strain rate influence on the material strength of different 3D woven composites. The impact resistance performance including damage mode, ballistic limit and specific energy absorption of three structures were discussed through impact tests. The results reveal that as the strain rate increases, the compressive strength and Young's modulus in both directions of 3D woven composites exhibit a significant increase. The compressive strength and modulus in the warp direction of the composites can be enhanced by using shallow interlocking of the warp tow or layered architectures. However, the two methods degrade the failure strain and weaken the strain rate strengthening effect of compressive strength in the weft direction, resulting in a significant decrease in the average strain energy density. For the ballistic impact case, the crimp of warp tows would decrease its load-bearing capacity, while resisting matrix crack growth under the ballistic impact. The significant reduction in the average strain energy density in the weft direction leads to a decrease in ballistic limit and specific energy absorption capacity under ballistic impact.