Effect of warp yarn paths on the symmetrical cyclic bending fatigue properties of 3D woven composites

Abstract In this study, the symmetric cyclic bending fatigue properties of three‐dimensional (3D) woven composites under the condition of R = −1 were investigated. Three types of 3D preform structures with different warp yarn paths were designed, and a bending fatigue testing fixture suitable for 3D woven composites under R = −1 conditions was developed. In addition, the bending fatigue properties, damage mechanisms, and failure modes of three composites were studied. The results showed that the warp yarn paths were responsible for the differences in quasi‐static bending properties. The bending fatigue properties were related to the warp yarn paths and applied stress. Satin woven (SW) structure had the highest bending fatigue failure strain value, followed by the twill woven (TW) structure, and the plain woven (PW) structure had the lowest. The bending fatigue limits of PW, TW, and SW structures were 40% (136 N), 40% (210.5 N), and 16% (119.4 N) stress levels, respectively. The bending fatigue failure mode of 3D woven composites was softening failure under the condition R = −1. Highlights The warp yarn paths significantly affects the quasi‐static bending properties. A symmetrical cyclic bending fatigue testing fixture was developed. The symmetrical cyclic bending fatigue life of 3D woven composites was obtained. SW composites have the highest bending fatigue failure strain value. The symmetrical cyclic bending fatigue failure modes were softening failures.