| abstract |
Materials and methods are provided for producing impact resistant composite preform materials suitable for liquid molding. An intermediate layer formed of non-woven continuous fibers, such as spunbond fabrics, spunlace fabrics or mesh fabrics, is introduced between uncompressed layers of unidirectional reinforcing fibers to produce a composite material. Produce preforms used in the molding process. Preform curing results in increased impact resistance by increasing the amount of energy required to propagate local failure due to impact. |