Can a three-dimensional composite really provide better mechanical performance compared to two-dimensional composite under compressive loading?

A series of split Hopkinson pressure bar tests on two-dimensional and three-dimensional woven composites were presented in order to obtain a reliable comparison between the two types of composites and the effect of the z-yarns along the third direction. These tests were done along different configurations: in-plane and out-of-plane compression test. For the three-dimensional woven composite, two different configurations were studied: compression responses along to the stitched direction and orthogonal to the stitched direction. It was found that three-dimensional woven composites exhibit an increase in strength for both: in-plane and out-of-plane tests.