4. Functions and applications

4.1 General

• The properties of 3D textiles can lead to a wide variety of performances, depending on the intended use of the material. There are four main types of generic functions:

  • Mechanical function involving wire performance and spatial architecture.

  • Exchange function for sealing and controlling friction, filtering or draining, insulating or conducting heat, sound, electricity, etc.

  • Reinforcing function for a wide range of materials: elastomers, organic or inorganic matrices for composite materials.

  • Protects against a wide range of stresses: electromagnetic radiation, shocks, ballistic impacts (bullets, shrapnel, etc.).

  The...