Novel woven UD fabrics are designed for versatility, reliability

Zoltek (Bridgeton, Mo., U.S.) is presenting its latest unidirectional (UD) woven fabric innovations, the PX35UD0300EPW and PX35UD0600EPW, which stand out distinctly from the company’s existing PX35 series, offering a range of features and advantages designed to meet the evolving needs of the composites industry.

Unlike previous offerings, PX35UD0300EPW and PX35UD0600EPW are woven, heat-bonded UD fabrics using a distinctive stabilization technique for easy handling during wet layup. The weft bonding yarn enables custom cutting on-site to minimize scrap. This structure enhances ease of handling and increases the fabric’s strength and stability. The woven nature ensures clean and efficient cutting minus frayed edges.

The fabrics are comprised of Zoltek PX35-1 (multi-compatible with epoxy and vinyl ester) and PX35-7 (compatible with vinyl ester) 50K continuous tow carbon fiber, enhancing performance and durability. 

According to Zoltek, the U.S.-made PX35UD0300EPW and PX35UD0600EPW fabrics offer a strategic advantage in the North American market, particularly in government-supported and defense projects. Previously, Zoltek says it only offered stitched UD types; this advancement, however, enables the company to target infrastructure applications more effectively and provide shorter lead times.

Other potential applications are listed, including reinforcing concrete structures; lining pipes, tanks and silos; and constructing water reservoirs, tunnels, bridges, chimneys and columns.

Zoltek is actively seeking to engage with companies qualified to use fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) systems where its material can seamlessly replace currently used materials. Additionally, Zoltek aims to attract businesses looking to develop their own FRP systems with their own resins.