Predicting the low-velocity impact failure of 3D woven composites based on a local homogenization modeling strategy

Three-dimensional woven composites (3DWC) have emerged as a promising lightweight solution for aviation structures prone to impact loads during operational life. However, effectively simulating the impact response and failure process of 3DWC presents a challenging task, requiring a delicate balance between computational efficiency and accuracy. In this study, a local-homogenization-based finite element modeling strategy for simulating the impact behavior of 3DWC panels was proposed. The model is constructed based on the fabric's architectural design, involving the decomposition of the unit cell into multiple homogeneous subcell elements aligned with the local yarn direction. The calibration exercises are conducted by simulating the mechanical responses of 3DWC under various monotonic loads and comparing the results with experimental data. Subsequently, the model is applied to predict the response of a 3DWC panel to low-velocity impacts, further corroborating the predictions through experimental validation. The modeling strategy proposed in this study provides an efficient method for analyzing and designing 3DWC structures.