Evaluating and modeling the behaviour of 2-D braided composites for cardiovascular catheter development

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Two- and three- dimensional braided composites have been used for decades as structural reinforcements. In recent years, 2-D braided composites have been studied for novel use in unconventional applications, such as catheters, which have characteristic diameters ranging from 0.8 mm to 4 mm, and sports equipment, which has varying shapes and regions of tight curvature over their lengths. Long term objectives of my research program are to study, understand better and predict the behaviour of open- and closed-mesh fibre-based two-dimensional braided composite laminate-based structures produced with either rigid or flexible resin matrices. Short term objectives are four projects which all meet challenges deriving from long and medium term objectives: (1) Develop the capability to braid over complex-shaped mandrels by improving kinematic models for braid-mandrel coverage optimization. (2) Develop a tool to perform full structure strain measurements. (3) Analyse experimental results and develop models for the elastic behaviour of rigid- and flexible-polymer matrix tubular braids under small to large deformation, in quasi-static loading. The use of flexible matrices, critical to catheters, is challenging because of complex non-linear behaviours and deformation- dependent elastic properties. (4) Investigate strand path and cross section effects on predictive models. The research program is anticipated to have a significant impact on fundamental braided composite materials theory and behavioural understanding. It will produce a large database of experimental data of braided composite with varying shapes and size to assess fully their behaviour and usefulness.The findings will be applicable to composite materials manufactured by other means and other unit cell configurations. This work will continue to have an impact on medical catheter technology, which has identified design weaknesses that can be met by 2D open mesh braiding. The effect of improved catheter technology on patient quality of life, for saving time, and improving the procedure for medical doctors is palpable. Six PhDs, two MSc and five undergraduate students, highly desirable to the Canadian work force, will be trained in this research program.