Journal of Materials Science, Vol.49, No.18, 6427-6436, 2014
Tensile behaviour of multi-layered braided structures
Multi-layered braided structures are formed as a result of over-braiding the previously formed braids and they are increasingly being used for numerous applications ranging from hoses to energy absorbing composites. In this research work, a series of multi-layered braided structures were prepared on circular braiding machine for obtaining various combinations of braid angles of 30A degrees and 45A degrees in inner and outer layers. Subsequently, the tensile properties of multi-layered braided structures were analysed and it was found that the braid angle in the outer layer has significantly affected the stress-strain behaviour. A simple analytical model for predicting the tensile behaviour of multi-layered braided structures has also been proposed based on the previously developed model of 'braid-elastic core' system. A clear distinction has also been made between the helix and braid angles. Furthermore, a comparison has been made between theoretical and experimental values of braid angle, toughness and stress-strain characteristics of multi-layered braided structures.