Abstract:

In this study, a novel manufacturing technique for three-dimensional integrated sandwich fabric with an ‘8’-shaped inside layer structure was developed. Furthermore a new integrated sandwich fabric with an ‘88’-shaped inside layer structure was designed in comparison with the ‘8’-shaped inside layer structure. The flatwise compression characteristics of the three-dimensional integrated sandwich fabric composites with different inside layer angles, inside layer heights and inside layer structures were investigated. The results showed that the inside layer structure of integrated sandwich fabric composites woven by the double rapier technique stand more uprightly than those woven by the traditional velvet weaving technique. What is more the corresponding flatwise compression performance was also greatly improved. Furthermore compared to ‘8’-shaped inside layer structure composites, ‘88’-shaped inside layer structure composites can not only retain the majority of pores but also greatly improve the flatwise compression performance of the composites.