Mechanical characterization of tetraxial textiles

Abstract

In this paper, the mechanical properties of different tetraxial fabrics are investigated. Fabrics were produced using an innovative loom capable of weaving four threads at the same time with complete discretion of yarn type and count. The experimental investigation deals with in-plane and out-of-plane mechanical testing of tetraxial fabrics, as well as yarns made of four different materials (polyethylene terephthalate, glass, aramid, and basalt). The digital image correlation technique was used to measure the in-plane strain field for both uniaxial and biaxial tensile tests. The extensive experimental campaign allowed for a complete mechanical characterization of this novel fabric architecture including interlacement of different yarns.