Finite element analysis of elastic property and thermo-physical properties of three-dimensional and full five-directional braided composites

Based on the meso-structure of three-dimensional and full five-directional(Q5D) braided composites, the parameric finite element model of three-dimensional and full five-directional braided composites was established. By using the reasonable boundary condition, the elastic constants, thermal conductivity coefficient and thermal expansion coefficient were calculated, which were in a good agreement with experimental results. Furthermore, the changing characteristics of elastic property and thermo-physical properties of the braided composites with the braided angle and volume fraction of fibers were described, and the calculation results were compared with the corresponding results of three-dimensional four-directional(4D) and five-directional(5D) braided composites. The results show that the mechanical properties, longitudinal thermal conductivity and the design of zero inflated structure of three-dimensional and full five-directional braided composites are better, providing a basis for the analysis of strength problem and the coupling problem of thermo-mechanics.