Applying Fuzzy Logic Model for Static Puncture Evaluation of Nonwoven Needle-Punched Polyester Fabrics

Nonwoven needle-punched fabrics are the most common textile structures used as geotextiles. In most applications, geotextiles are subjected to compressive forces. These forces cause the layers to deform and eventually create puncture. The present study develops an intelligent model for the evaluation of static puncture resistance and real elongation of nonwoven needle-punched polyester fabrics using fuzzy logic method. The fuzzy logic expert system, contrary to many other mathematical methods, can considerably forecast the behavior of nonlinear complex phenomena. Parameters of needle penetration depth, needle punch density, and fabric areal weight were considered as input variables of the designed model. The experimental results were conducted by a universal strength tester based on the well-known static puncture (CBR) test method. The fuzzy model showed that puncture resistance increases with the enhancement of fabric areal weight, but excessive increase of the needling parameters causes the puncture resistance to decrease. Furthermore, the results of the model demonstrated that the fabric puncture real elongation decreases, while the input variables increase. It was also observed that the real and predicted values of puncture resistance and puncture real elongation of the fabrics were in good agreement with very low absolute error.