Impact performance of jute 3D woven auxetic reinforced thermoplastic (PC/PVB) composites

Inducing auxetic nature is one of the emerging techniques to enhance impact tolerance in 3D woven composites due to their unique bidimensional-energy dissipation capability. The conventional 3D orthogonal structure has inherent auxetic nature; however, such auxeticity is completely restricted due to brittle thermoset resins-based composites. To overcome this problem, three types of 3D woven auxetic structures were developed and used as reinforcement with thermoplastic resins, that is, polycarbonate (PC) and polyvinyl butyral (PVB). The results revealed that the warp interlock structure showed the highest auxeticity, while the bidirectional interlock structure showed the least auxeticity. Charpy and low-velocity impact tests were performed to evaluate the effect of auxeticity on the impact properties of corresponding composites. Warp interlock with PC showed 49% and 47% higher Charpy impact strength and force, respectively, than bidirectional interlock with PC resin. Similarly, the low-velocity impact test results of warp interlock showed 32% and 32.5% higher impact force and absorbed energy, respectively, in warp direction than bidirectional interlock with PC resin.