Manufacturing quality in composite laminates is one of the key aspects to have in consideration when producing aerostructures. For composite structures quality evaluation, an iterative process of qualification of the first items manufactured is often followed. Thus, the manufacturing process parameters can be tuned until achieving an incremented maturity level that ensures the structure mechanical properties present values within the defined quality standards.
Volume fraction of voids (pores), resin and fibre is part of the set of properties that must be verified, especially in novel and/or low cost manufacturing processess that can affect the structural behaviour. The ability to obtain results depending on the technique used for testing becomes very important at this point.
This study proposes a comparative analysis of the measurement of voids, fibre and resin percentage on carbon fibre reinforced polymers by automated image analysis technique and acid digestion method, varying parameters of the test procedure with the purpose of evaluating their influence in the correct determination of volume fractions. The use of different methods and parameters allows to analyze comparatively the different results obtained and shows advantages and disadvantages of both methods as well as provides valuable information on the best practices for correct test execution following each procedure.
Abstract
Manufacturing quality in composite laminates is one of the key aspects to have in consideration when producing aerostructures. For composite structures quality evaluation, an iterative process [...]