Needlepunched Composite Structures

Abstract

This article describes the formation of preforms using needlepunching technology, which is a mechanical bonding technique, and the prior processes (carding, carding and crosslapping, and air lay) that may be used to form fiberwebs. The impact of processing variables and needle parameters on the needled preform properties, which influence the final composite performance, is reviewed. Methods of resin infusion that are required to convert needled preforms to final composites are given along with their features. Finally, applications of needlepunched composites are provided with their constituent and competitive approaches.