Mechanical response and failure mechanism of three-dimensional braided composites under various strain-rate loadings by experimental and simulation research: a review

The high stiffness and great strength of three-dimensional (3D) braided composites mean they are widely used in the aerospace, marine and automotive industries. Three-dimensional braided composites exhibit very different mechanical responses under various strain-rate loadings (such as tensile, compression, punch and shearing) due to their complex structural characteristics. Studies under quasi-static and low strain-rate loadings predict the elasto-plastic properties of 3D braided composites, and research under high strain-rate loading has explored the conditions of industrial composites used in special environments. The investigation of the strain-rate effect can provide a sound database reference for engineering design. Through experiments and simulation analysis methods, this work reviews the braided structural effect, mechanical response and failure mechanism of 3D braided composites under various strain rates. Mechanical properties under different theoretical and structural models are reviewed and summarized. In particular, the damage evolution and stress propagation of 3D braided composites were revealed from both macroscopic and microscopic perspectives through finite element modeling.