Multiscale and shear damage modeling of a four-harness satin weave composite material

Multiscale finite element modeling of a four-harness satin weave composite is developed. The models include micromechanics at the fiber/matrix level and mesomechanics at the weave architecture level. The models are applicable to all types of constituent materials and variation of several parameters that define a woven fabric composite is possible. The internal response of the material to external loads is studied. Good agreement is shown between predicted linear elastic moduli and experimental data.; A continuum damage model is applied to individual constituents in a unidirectional micromechanics model and subsequently the four-harness satin weave composite model in an attempt to predict the nonlinear stress-strain response observed when the composite is subjected to in-plane shear loading. The damage model is capable of capturing the inelastic stress-strain behavior observed in the unidirectional and woven fabric composites.