A review of the formability of woven fabrics for composite materials

Abstract Textile composites are advanced materials composed of preforms combined with matrix materials. The fiber structure in the preform has a significant impact on the mechanical properties of the composite. Precise control over preform dimensions and internal fiber structural uniformity, termed ‘accurate shape control’, is essential to ensure reliable and stable composite component mechanical properties. This paper reviews current research progress on fabric deformation mechanisms, focusing on experimental characterization and numerical simulation. Experimental methods for fabric deformation include tensile, compression, bending, and shear deformation, whereas numerical methods encompass macroscopic continuum, discrete, and semi‐discrete models. The insights offered in this paper will aid a greater understanding of fabric deformation mechanisms, enabling an accurate prediction of complex shape molding and effective process parameter design, ultimately facilitating the structural design and engineering applications of textile composites. Highlights Recent trends and challenges in the study of fabric deformation mechanisms are presented. The experimental methods for fabric deformation were summarized and evaluated. Representative numerical modeling techniques and simulation methods are discussed. Some recommendations on potential future research directions are detailed.