Abstract
Multiaxial knitted non-crimp fabrics (NCFs) are a relatively new form of reinforcement for composites. A study focusing on the mechanical properties of such composites has been carried out and the results are reported in this paper. E-glass/epoxy composites were manufactured by the Resin Transfer Molding (RIM) process using different NCFs. The composites were tested in uniaxial tension, three point bending, compression and short beam shear. Results on elastic modulus and strength were obtained and compared among the different testing conditions. Failure of the NCF composites was examined visually after the final failure of the specimens. The test results on tension and flexural moduli were compared with Classical Lamination Theory (CLT) predictions, and good agreements were observed. The test results and inspections of failed specimens revealed that the NCF composite laminates behaved like their tape laminate counterparts. Consequently, low cost high perfomance composite laminates may be achieved through the use of NCF fabrics as reinforcing materials.
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