Mechanics Methodology for Textile Preform Composite Materials

Abstract

NASA and its contractors have completed a program to develop a basic mechanics underpinning for textile composites. Three major deliverables were produced by the program: 1. a set of test methods for measuring material properties and design allowables 2. mechanics models to predict the effects of the fiber preform architecture and constituent properties on engineering moduli, strength, damage resistance, and fatigue life 3. an electronic data base of coupon type test data This report describes these three deliverables. KEY WORDS: Textile Composites, Mechanical Properties, Test Methods, Analysis, Data Base 1. INTRODUCTION NASA and its contractors have completed Phases A and B of the Advanced Composites Technology (ACT) program to develop composite wings and fuselages for a commercial transport airplane with costs that are competitive with those of current metal airplanes. Textile composites were considered for many components to improve structural performance and to reduce costs. Boein..