Bending properties of bi-axial weft-knitted basalt fiber fabric reinforced composites of different ways of inserted yarn

Co-woven-knitted (CWK) fabric and multi-layered biaxial weft knitted (MBWK) fabric were produced by different ways of inserted yarn, using high tenacity and high modulus basalt fiber filaments with different linear density as warp, weft and stitch yarns. Then the fabrics were used for preparing the basalt fiber/ethylene composites by vacuum assisted resin transfer molding process. The bending tests were carried out in 0?, 90? and 45? directions. The mechanical properties of the composites were investigated and compared by analyzing the bending stress-strain curves. The results reveal that the bending strength and the elastic modulus of the two materials in 0? and 90? directions are all better than that in 45? direction, and the curves have the characteristics of plastic fracture. The bending properties in 0? and 90? directions of the MBWK fabric reinforced composites are better than that of the CWK fabric reinforced composites. The buckling of the warp and weft yarns causes that specific modulus and strength of yarns of the MBWK fabric reinforced composites are better than that of the CWK fabric reinforced composites. The bending properties of the composites are affected by different ways of inserted yarn. Bending damage forms of the composites are similar. The results provide a reference for the application of the composites.