Identifying optimal rotating pitch angles in composites with Bouligand structure

The Bouligand structure is a typical helicoidal architecture found in various crustaceans which each layer rotates by small angle relative to the adjacent one. We present theoretical analysis relate rotation pitch mechanical performance (interlaminar shear property this case) of laminas mimicking architecture. For given laminate, there exists an optimal that yields lowest stress. Theoretical models are compared against experimental tests carried out on 32-layer carbon fibre laminates with angles 6°, 9.1°, 12°, 25.7°. 9.1° predicted angle. results show particular indeed attains highest load-bearing capability and delays any catastrophic delamination. This provides fundamental basis design structures