Eliminating the volume redundancy of embedded elements and yarn interpenetrations in meso-finite element modelling of textile composites

Embedded elements (EE) present a potential for an effective solution of interpenetration of yarn volumes, excluding the need for creation of continuous meshes in the matrix and in the reinforcement. The paper investigates application of contact algorithm to eliminate the interpenetration and introduces a stiffness correction in volumes made redundant because of coincidence of the embedded and the host meshes. Different fibre configurations (two intersecting yarns and a 3D woven reinforced composite) are considered and a good agreement is observed between the continuously meshed and EE models in prediction of the homogenised properties and strain-stress profiles in loaded unit cells.