Theoretical description of large deformations in criss-cross composites (with application to Tensylon®)

Abstract

A theoretical model of an anisotropic material, Tensylon®, under large strains is proposed. This model is capable to describe the material’s response in in-plane tension at different angles to the fibrils. At 0° and at 90°, i.e., along the fibrils in either “criss” or “cross” plies, it quantitatively predicts the experimentally observed elastic behaviour until failure. At 45° to the fibrils, it quantitatively describes the experi- mental data in the elastic and plastic domains. The description remains accurate up to strains of 35%, that corresponds to 30÷40% of deforma- tion gradient components. The infinitesimal strains model would give at least 25% of error under such circumstances.