Effect of temperature on the failure modes of a triaxially braided polymer matrix composite

The temperature effect on the tensile behavior of a triaxially braided composite was investigated in two different loading directions. The damage evolution was monitored and the results were explained with the help of experimental, analytical and numerical methods. The evolution in the constituent elastic properties was responsible for stress redistribution within the composite explaining the differences in crack initiation and Ultimate Tensile Strength for both directions and testing temperatures. The study also revealed the potential of quick and efficient analytical homogenization models to explain failure paths in textile composites.