Damage evolution of 3D woven carbon/epoxy composites under tension-tension fatigue loading based on synchrotron radiation computed tomography (SRCT)

A method combining mechanical testing, infrared thermography (IRT) and synchrotron radiation computed tomography (SRCT) is proposed for the damage evolution of 3D woven carbon/epoxy composites under tension-tension (T-T) fatigue loading. To study the relationship between the damage evolution and the stiffness degradation, fatigue tests of six specimens are carried out to different stages before detection by SRCT and optical microscope. The detected results have revealed how cracks initiate, distribute and develop with increasing fatigue cycles. Particularly, the effects of fiber yarn undulation and twist caused during the manufacturing process are discussed.

Automated summary

A method combining mechanical testing, infrared thermography (IRT) and synchrotron radiation computed tomography (SRCT) is proposed for studying the damage evolution of 3D woven carbon/epoxy composites under tension-tension (T-T) fatigue loading. Fatigue tests and detection revealed the initiation, distribution, and development of cracks with increasing fatigue cycles, as well as discussed the effects of fiber yarn undulation and twist during the manufacturing process.