Puncture resistance of fibrous structures

We have developed the first comprehensive model for the study of the factors controlling the resistance of fiber fabric systems against needle puncture. Our results reveal that puncture occurs in four different stages: (i) contact pressure of the tip of the needle against a fiber strand; (ii) slippage of the tip into an inter-fiber spacing, resulting in puncture; (iii) friction of the fabric against the conical section of the needle; and (iv) slippage of the conical section through the fabric. In multi-ply fabric systems, we also find that the maximum force on the needle occurs during friction against its conical section (regime (iii)), i.e. after puncture by the tip has occurred.