Large deformation bending of single-ply fabric reinforced polymer composite

This study investigates the large deformation bending properties of a single-ply fabric reinforced polymer composite (SpFRPC) by the innovative counterweight balanced column bending test (CWB-CBT) and microscopic analysis. The influences of temperatures and asymmetric weave structure on SpFRPC's bending properties are emphasized. In glassy state at 15°C, SpFRPC failed in a brittle manner, with the ultimate moment and initial bending stiffness per width 19.16 Nmm and 448.61 Nmm². The bending capacity decreased to negligible at 40°C in the rubbery state but vice versa for deformability, reaching the curvature of 0.135 mm⁻¹ within maximum accommodation of this CWB-CBT fixture. The asymmetric weave structure enabled larger deformability when bent outward than inward, resulting in more significant stiffness and ultimate moment inward than outward. The transverse yarns' gaps were the weak locations of bending fracture, especially at weave intersection edges. In general, the present work provides an exploratory study for understanding the folding mechanical properties of the SpFRPC.