Experiment and analysis of fluidic flexible matrix composite (F 2 MC) tube

In this research, a fluidic flexible matrix composites (F²MC) tube composed of flexible matrix composite (FMC) and inner liner is investigated. Significant changes in effective axial elastic modulus could be achieved through controlling the interior fluid. Based on classical laminated-plate theory and anisotropic elasticity, a three-dimensional analytical method is proposed to characterize the axial mechanical behavior of the F²MC tube. In comparison with the experiment result, the analysis is deemed to possess satisfying accuracy in the effective axial elastic modulus prediction of the F²MC tube. In addition, the effective axial elastic modulus ratio is discussed under different material and geometry parameters of the tube. The analysis result shows that the modulus ratio can reach up to 120 by refining the material and geometry parameters. Therefore, the investigated F²MC tube could serve as potential candidate for the morphing skin applications with variable stiffness.