3D Strain Fields in a Plant Fibre Composite During Fragmentation Test: Micro-CT Based DIC and DVC

This paper aims to study the evolution of the 3D strain fields in a single yarn composite during fragmentation test. The internal full-field strains were obtained by coupling micro-CT scans with digital image correlation (DIC) and digital volume correlation (DVC). An ex-situ step-by-step fragmentation test was carried out on a sample made of a hemp yarn and a polymer matrix filled with metal oxide powder, playing the role of a three dimensional speckle. Macroscopic markers were also added to enable a precise geometric alignment during the 3D reconstruction. The analysis of the tomographic images showed a stepwise progression of the damage occurrence: yarn breaks appeared first, followed by internal matrix cracks and then edge cracks occurred for high strain levels. DIC method allowed to easily and quickly determine 2D strain maps in selected planes. The use of DVC was more complex and needed powerful computing systems but it gave the volumetric strains in the whole sample. DVC calculations were compared and validated by DIC results in central planes. Experimental results were also compared with finite element simulations. This study demonstrates the viability and benefits of combining DVC and micro-CT for a deeper understanding of complex 3D strains in single yarn composites.