Abstract
This study presents a process development and mechanical characterization for through-the-thickness yarns (TTYs) incorporated into continuous fiber-reinforced thermoset composites (CFTCs) using a 3D printing system with photopolymer curing technology. Two types of CFTCs were prepared with different ply orientations and placement of TTYs. The mechanical properties of the samples were evaluated through three-point flexural strength tests and numerical simulations. The experimental and numerical results exhibited acceptable agreement up to the first peak of the reaction force. The presence of TTYs reduced the maximum stress and altered the failure mechanisms, while improving resistance to delamination cracking. The energyabsorption capacity of the samples with TTYs was increased by 23% to 53%. However, the flexural strength of the samples decreased by 14% to 23% with the incorporation of TTYs due to the formation of small sections with low fiber content around TTYs and the concentration of von Mises stress.
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