What Is 0/90 Biaxial Carbon Fabric?
0/90 biaxial carbon fabric is a non-crimp reinforcement built from two layers of straight, untwisted carbon fiber tows — one running at 0 degrees, the other at 90 degrees — stitched together with a light knit yarn. Because the tows are laid flat rather than woven, the fabric carries load efficiently in two perpendicular directions while avoiding the crimp losses of a woven cloth.
This balanced architecture is the natural choice when a part sees load along two axes rather than one. It is the workhorse for large flat or gently curved panels, boxes, and shells, and it is frequently combined with ±45 plies to build a laminate that handles combined tension, compression, and shear. See our carbon fiber fabric guide for how 0/90 compares with UD, ±45, and woven constructions.
Typical Constructions and Specifications
| Grade | Tow size | Areal weight | Orientation | Process |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GF-HM200 | 12K | 200 gsm | 0/90 hybrid | VARTM |
| Biaxial range | 12K / 25K / 63K | 200-600 gsm | 0/90 | VARTM / infusion |
Glass/carbon hybrid versions are available for cost-sensitive large structures. Maximum fabric width is 2,540 mm from our multiaxial warp-knitting lines, with custom widths and roll lengths produced to order.
Why Choose 0/90 Biaxial
Balanced two-axis properties. Equal reinforcement in 0 and 90 degrees suits loads that change direction.
Two plies in one pass. Replaces two separate unidirectional plies, cutting lay-up time and alignment errors.
Straight fibers, less crimp. Higher translation of fiber properties into laminate strength and stiffness than woven cloth.
Predictable thickness. Controlled areal weight gives consistent laminate thickness and resin uptake.
Fast infusion. The stitch-bonded open structure is VARTM compatible and wets out quickly.
Good handling. The knit yarn keeps the ply intact through cutting, kitting, and draping.
Applications
Marine. Hulls, decks, bulkheads, and superstructures — see carbon fiber fabric for marine and shipbuilding.
Wind energy. Blade root laminates, shell panels, and strengthening patches — see blade root and trailing edge reinforcement.
Automotive and rail. Body panels, floors, and interior structural parts.
Construction. Structural strengthening plates and bridge reinforcement where load is bidirectional.
Industrial. Enclosures, covers, machine bases, and tooling.
Containers and tanks. Walls that see pressure load in two directions.
If the dominant load is along a single axis, unidirectional (UD) fabric is more efficient; if the part is dominated by shear or torsion, choose ±45 biaxial fabric. For axial stiffness at thickness, also compare pultruded carbon plates.
Processing Guidelines
Keep the stack symmetric. Mirror 0/90 plies about the mid-plane to prevent warping after cure.
Add ±45 where shear matters. A 0/90 stack alone has little shear capacity — add ±45 plies for panels under torsion or point loads.
Match the resin. Standard sizing is epoxy compatible; confirm for vinyl ester, polyester, or thermoplastic systems.
Watch the flow front. Verify infusion on a trial panel, especially in thick or wide laminates.
Qualify before volume. Test a production-representative laminate for strength, stiffness, and thickness.
Quality, Standards and Supply
Uniform, straight tows. Per-tow tension control during production keeps both layers flat and evenly loaded.
Documented testing. Each batch ships with a CNAS-accredited test report and full traceability to the tow lot.
Certified quality system. ISO 9001, AS9100D, IATF 16949, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001.
Capacity. 150+ weaving machines, 33,000 m² daily output, multiaxial warp-knitting width up to 2,540 mm.
Flexible supply. MOQ from 1 roll standard, 1,000 m non-standard; standard lead time 7-15 days.
Packaging. Rolls sealed in moisture-barrier film inside cartons; store at 10-35 °C below 70% relative humidity. Shelf life 24 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I use 0/90 biaxial instead of UD fabric?
Use 0/90 when the part carries significant load in two perpendicular directions. If nearly all the load runs along one axis — as in a wind blade spar cap — unidirectional fabric is more efficient. Other orientations, including ±45 and triple-axial constructions, are covered in the full multi-axial (MX) fabric range.
Is 0/90 biaxial the same as woven fabric?
No. Both reinforce two directions, but a woven cloth interlaces the tows (creating crimp), while a 0/90 non-crimp biaxial lays two straight layers and stitches them. The non-crimp fabric generally delivers higher mechanical properties; woven fabric drapes more easily and gives the classic visible-carbon appearance.
Do you offer glass/carbon hybrid 0/90 fabrics?
Yes, hybrids are available to tune cost against performance, and are common in large wind and marine structures — see glass vs carbon fiber in 100-meter wind blades.
What are the supply options?
Widths up to 2,540 mm, areal weights from 200 to 600 gsm, and custom roll lengths. Minimum order is 1 roll for standard products and 1,000 m for non-standard, with a 7-15 day standard lead time.
