Analysis of Defects during the Preforming of a Woven Flax Reinforcement

Abstract

This paper presents one of the first experimental investigations to analyze the formability of dry woven preform made of flax yarns. A defect analysis at the preform scale, such as wrinkling or buckling is conducted. This work indicates the mechanisms at the origin of these defects. To form complex shapes without generation of defects, the constitution and the architecture of the yarns constituting the woven fabric should be optimised.