Three-dimensional needle-punching for composites – A review

• Published in: Composites. Part A, Applied science and manufacturing Vol. 85; pp. 12 - 30
• Main Authors: Chen, Xiaoming, Chen, Li, Zhang, Chunyan, Song, Leilei, Zhang, Diantang
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.06.2016
• Subjects: A. 3-Dimensional reinforcement; A. Preform; B. Mechanical properties; composite materials; E. Preforming; engineering; manufacturing; A. 3-Dimensional reinforcement; B. Mechanical properties; A. Preform; E. Preforming
• ISSN: 1359-835X; 1878-5840
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compositesa.2016.03.004

The current literature on three-dimensional (3D) needle-punched composites tends to address the aspects of preforms fabrication and composites characterization respectively. This paper aims to bring together these two aspects to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the subject of 3D needle-punched reinforcements for composites. Consequently, this paper contains a detailed outline of the current state of 3D needle-punched technology for manufacturing advanced composite preforms. Properties of 3D needle-punched composites and some of the predictive models available for determining these properties are also reviewed. To conclude, a number of current and potential applications of 3D needle-punched preforms for engineering composites are highlighted, and issues impeding the use of 3D needle-punched composites are also summarized.