HYBRID 3D WOVEN STRUCTURES FOR CONCRETE REINFORCEMENT UNDER IMPACT LOADING PART 1: DEVELOPMENT OF A BI-AXIAL CORE DESIGN

Abstract

Steel reinforced concrete (RC) is extensively used in the construction industry due to its high strength, durability, and versatility. Nonetheless, its resilience under dynamic loads, such as impact, remains particularly low. The research training group DFG GRK 2250 aims to significantly improve the impact energy absorption of existing infrastructures by applying thin layers of an innovative strengthening material composed of a strain hardening cementitious composite and a novel textile reinforcement. This paper investigated methods for manufacturing 3D hybrid woven fabrics with a core incorporating spatial elements in both the weft and warp directions, based on a bi-axial core design. The challenges associated with shaping spatial elements before and during the weaving process were discussed, with the latter proving to be the optimal choice when combined with carbon fiber towpregs. After developing the structural design, selecting the materials for each element, and establishing the fabric binding pattern, a demonstrator was successfully produced using a modified rapier weaving machine