Axial compressive properties and energy absorption of CFRP/PVC composite tubes

In this paper, two types of tubes—PVC-lined carbon fiber braided composites (CFRP/PVC) and pure carbon fiber braided composites (CFRP)—are fabricated using vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding technology. The compression and energy absorption properties of PVC tubes, pure carbon tubes, and CFRP/PVC hybrid tubes are investigated through axial quasi-static compression tests. The results indicate that during axial compression, the PVC tube undergoes compressive force and outward bending deformation, transferring lateral extrusion force to the outer braided composite material. Both materials simultaneously experience axial compressive force and interact, where the outer braided composite tube constrains the lateral extrusion deformation of the PVC tube, while the inner PVC tube mitigates the compressive damage to the outer braided composite tube. The incorporation of a hybrid CFRP/PVC structure effectively enhances the axial compressive energy absorption and stability of the CFRP tubes.