Anisotropic Thermal Expansion Behaviors and Damage Evolution Mechanisms of 3D Angle‐Interlocked Woven Composites Subjected to Thermal Cycling

ABSTRACT The spatially heterogeneous arrangement of fiber tows in three‐dimensional angle‐interlocked woven composites induces anisotropic thermomechanical responses during thermal cycling, particularly manifested in directional‐dependent damage mechanisms. This investigation systematically examines these anisotropic behaviors through an integrated experimental‐numerical framework. A multiscale computational model incorporating temperature–time dependent constitutive relations was developed to simulate the thermomechanical coupling effects during thermal cycling. The anisotropic thermal deformation of the material was predicted by the multiscale model and validated through thermomechanical analysis. Micro‐computed tomography characterization revealed three‐dimensional crack propagation features, while finite element analysis elucidated the underlying mechanisms by quantifying thermally induced strain localization and residual stress accumulation. This coupled experimental‐computational approach provides mechanistic insights into damage initiation and evolution under cyclic thermal loading, establishing a foundation for durability prediction in high‐temperature applications.