Patent ID: 6358603
Filing Date: 2002-03-19
Classification: B32B,E04C,E04H,Y10T

Abstract:
A shaped article, at least one domain of which comprises a three-dimensionally reinforced composite structure that comprises a matrix and a reinforcing system,the reinforcing system comprising a plurality of bodies embedded in the matrix and extending three-dimensionally in first, second and third dimensions therein, the reinforcing system being tension interlocked in at least one dimension in that reinforcement components extending in at least one of the first and second dimensions are tension interlocked to reinforcement components extending in the same dimension(s), but at a transverse distance therefrom, by transverse reinforcement components extending in a dimension transverse to a plane or surface defined by the reinforcement in the at least one of the first and second dimensions, wherein the matrix has a compressive strength of at least 80 MPa, a modulus of elasticity of at least 40 GPa, and a fracture energy of at least 0.5 kN/m, the reinforcing bodies having a tensile strength of at least 200 MPa, and the volume proportion of the reinforcing bodies in the reinforced composite structure being at least 2%, the volume proportion in any specific direction being at least 0.5%.