Investigation into energy absorption capacity of composites reinforced by three-dimensional-weft knitted fabrics

Energy absorption capacity is of great importance in engineering applications such as bumpers, helmets and packaging. Textile-made composites have attracted world's attention due to their high energy absorption and lightweight. This study aims at evaluating energy absorption capability of composites reinforced by three-dimensional-weft knitted fabrics. To achieve this purpose, weft knitted fabrics with different structures and surface densities were prepared from nylon yarns. Having washed the fabrics, their shapes have changed to three-dimensional ones using a thermoforming process and specific casting. Three-dimensional fabrics were first covered by epoxy resin and then laid in a bed of poly vinyl chloride foam in order to improve their energy absorption capacities. Quasi-static pressure and dynamic pendulum impact tests were carried out for samples. The results were analyzed by the Minitab software and optimal sample was determined.