“A Comparative Evaluation of Quasi-isotropic Laminates Composed of Either Braided Triaxial Fabric or Woven Fabric”

Braided quasi-isotropic (0°, +/-60°) fabric has enabled easy lay-up and provided superior performance for a variety of composite applications, but to date the test data characterizing the benefits of quasi-isotropic fabric has been application specific. Quasi-isotropic laminates composed of prepregged woven fabric were compared to laminates composed of prepregged quasi-isotropic braided fabric. Both fabrics were produced with the same fiber type and were prepregged with the same resin. The coupon test matrix included: tension and compression in multiple directions; in-plane shear; CAI; open-hole tension and open-hole compression. Panel testing included impact testing using a soft gelatin projectile. The panel testing performed bracketed the containment threshold. Analysis of the two material systems studied and the impact testing performed will be examined in this presentation.