Network Materials — Reinforcing and Stiffening with Three-Dimensional Textile Structures

Abstract

A new structural material described here is a fibre composite based on three-dimensionally moulded textile sheets that are set and stabilized with synthetic resin. The special feature of the material is its filigree structure. The network material is lightweight, strong, permeable to gases and liquids, mouldable, and permeable. These properties open up new possibilities of solving problems, especially in light weight construction: the material can be used on its own as a core for sandwich systems, as a skeleton for reinforcing other materials, and for permanently joining different types of material to one another. Initial examples of applications in various sectors are introduced.