A Novel additive manufacturing process for multi-matrix fiber reinforced composites

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

Abstract

Integrating different matrices into fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) offers great potential for general tailored functionalities. By locally integrating flexible matrix zones in otherwise stiff FRPs, both very stiff and flexible areas with properties such as bending and damping behavior can be achieved. A novel method for manufacturing these so-called multi-matrix composites (MMC) is presented in this work. Either manually or in an automated fashion a first matrix system is locally applied to fiber preforms. After curing these zones, all fiber areas that are still dry can be infiltrated with a second matrix system. In this manner a composite structure with different and defined matrix zones of almost any size and shape can be created. Experimentally, the integration of flexible polyurethane and stiff epoxy resin into glass fiber preforms was investigated, considering material compatibility and process precision. For an established process-chain, good infiltration quality with distinct transition zone between the matrices was verified, resulting in bending specimens showing deformation only in the regions of polyurethane elastomer matrix.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Article number4
Pages (from-to)50-58
Number of pages9
JournalSAMPE journal : official journal of the Society for the Advancement of Material and Process Engineering
Volume6
Issue number59
Publication statusPublished - Nov 2023
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

ORCID /0000-0001-9981-4095/work/157318167
Mendeley 1b9e1a37-9969-3b18-917e-ecf4c5e289e1
unpaywall 10.33599/sj.v59no6.04
ORCID /0000-0002-0406-5800/work/172570345

Keywords