2B3_0609_ COMPRESSION FATIGUE BEHAVIOUR OF A BIOMIMETIC 3D TEXTILE STRUCTURE FOR PRESSURE ULCERS PREVENTION

Abstract

The objective of the present research study is the development of a multifunctional textile structure to prevent the appearance of pressure ulcers. The concept of the overall structure was inspired by plant structures morphology, resulting in a 3D patchwork knitted fabric, specially designed according to the necessities of body segments, for a mattress overlay. To simulate the pressure that causes the occurrence of bedsores, compression tests were performed allowing the analysis of strain/stress behaviour, energy absorption and thickness variation under load. The results show the suitable behaviour of the textile structure developed to prevent pressure ulcers.