14 - Application of knitted fabrics in textile structural composites

Abstract

Direction of fiber orientation plays a crucial role in deciding mechanical performance of textile reinforced composites. Unlike conventional materials, knitted structures can be designed and developed for load bearing in a particular direction. Their properties can be enhanced by modifying the structure and material composition. One major challenge in producing textile structural composites with superior mechanical properties at reasonably lower price is cost-effective prepreg. Composites constructed from knitted reinforcement preforms are better than randomly oriented fibers at reasonable cost. Their flex fatigue is superior to woven preforms in specific applications. This chapter details the different types of weft- and warp-knitted structures for load bearing applications. Use of industrial multifilament yarns of pure and hybrid composition in knitting process is summarized. The methods of impregnation of knitted fabrics by thermoplastic and thermoset resins are described. The superior performance in such composites is highlighted. Methods of characterizing knitted fabric reinforced composites are compared. Current and future applications are mentioned.