Toward Process Optimization by Monitoring the Electrical Properties During the Cure Cycle for CFRP
SourceApplication of advanced composite materials, namely carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) (graphite/epoxy) to aerospace structures is currently expanding from simple components to complex-shape integrated structures. The objective of this study is to establish the feasibility of optimizing the cure cycle of integrated CFRP structure by in-process direct measurement of electrical properties of the article in an autoclave.
An instrumentation technique that included material and shape of electrodes and an insulator and bleeder system was investigated. Experimental studies using the above test setup attempted to determine correct pressurization timing under certain preprogrammed heating patterns thus resulting in cured CFRP laminates, which were practically voidless, with proper fiber volume fraction and thickness per ply.