Multi-scale-Reinforced Prepregs for the Improvement of Damage Tolerance and Electrical Properties of Aeronautical Structures

Abstract

Within the AS09 scenario, partners developed and investigated means by which the damage tolerance of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRPs) can be improved. This scenario worked alongside AS10 to deliver multifunctional composite materials. The goal was on the improvement in damage tolerance and electrical isotropy which in turn can produce a reduction in weight at the aircraft structure level. Nanoparticle introduction in composite materials compromised the main technological field studied, aiming to advance their Technology Readiness Level against more traditional methods (e.g., thermoplastic veils). Multi-scale modification technology for conventional prepregs developed by Applied Mechanics Laboratory at University of Patras was one of the investigated routes. The resulted MWCNT powder-treated prepreg proved to be one of the two best performing technologies during Phase 1 testing and was further selected to be further characterized (RT and HW) in Phase 2 at coupon level and at sub-element level. Moreover, the MWCNT powder-treated prepreg was down-selected to be used for lower panel production in IS13. In parallel, various industrialization aspects of the technology were investigated such as supply chain management, material handling, and process optimization during composites production. A laboratory production line was established and approximately 1000 m² of base prepreg material were treated and delivered. This chapter reviews the work performed on multi-scale modification technology for conventional prepregs during the course of SARISTU project (AS09, AS10 and IS13) summarizing key engineering developments and results.