N. Linking Process-Induced Properties to Thermoplastic-Matrix Woven-Fabric Composites Performance

Modeling of the in-service performance of thermoplastic-matrix woven-fabric-reinforced structural composites – e.g., damage tolerance, crashworthiness, vibration – is currently inadequate for parts of any geometric complexity because of the inability of existing performance models to capture the true deformed material properties. As a result, lightweight composite materials are utilized inefficiently or not at all; alternatively, extensive experimental trial and error or design of experiments must be conducted to develop a satisfactory product. The key to addressing this barrier is to provide a direct link between part geometry, material selection, process conditions, process-induced local properties, and part performance, allowing informed feedback to the design process.