A microstructure model for finite-element simulation of 3D rectangular braided composite under ballistic penetration

The non-delamination feature of 3D braided composites under transverse impact leads to their potential application in the field of ballistic impact protection. One of the effective ways to investigate the ballistic impact damage of the 3D braided composite is to simulate the penetration process by numerical method, such as finite element method. However the numerical simulations of ballistic impact damage are seldom conducted based on the microstructure level. This paper presents a microstructure model for simulating ballistic impact damage of 4-step 3D braided rectangular composite penetrated by a rigid steel projectile. The microstructure model is based on the same yarn spatial configuration with that of the braided composite and also on the assumptions of the braided yarns appear straight inside the braided preform, bending and then change to other directions only at the surface. The ballistic perforation of the braided composite specimen by a cylindrical-conically steel projectile has been simulated with finite element method. The comparisons between FEA and experimental results show the validity of the microstructure model, especially for the penetration resistance and impact damage of the composite. Compared with the other continuum models of the braided composite, the microstructure model can simulate impact damage more precisely. The velocity history and acceleration history of projectile, and impact damage development of the composite in FEM simulation indicate the different damage and energy absorption mechanisms of the braided composite compared with those of laminated composite.