Composite manufacturing processes: modeling, characterization and monitoring for a better control of final quality
Résumé
The polymer and composite team at the Laboratoire de Thermique et Energie de Nantes is specialized in understanding, predicting and controlling multiphysical phenomena occurring in polymer and composite manufacturing processes. There is a strong and unique legacy in developing experimental benches for characterizing material properties under conditions close to the ones they experience in industrial manufacturing processes (rapid heating/cooling, high pressure, high gradients, etc.).
In order to control and optimize manufacturing processes there is a strong need for predictive modeling and simulations of physical phenomena occurring in polymer and composite forming. Besides numerical developments inherent to simulation tools, they also require material properties characterization and in-situ measurements.
In this talk, I will present two recent developments.
The first part will focus on resin transfer moulding. The work presented is the result of collaborative work with James Kratz from the university of Bristol. We investigated the use of a pressure mapping sensor form Tekscan to monitor the resin flow in an RTM mould. The measured pressure map was also used to assess material variability. We used that data as an input in a direct numerical simulation of the infusion.
In the second part I will present the work performed in the LTEN lab on characterization of adhesion kinetics of thermoplastic composites (TPC). It consists in a home made welding bench (TACOMA). The TPC samples are welded under controlled temperature and pressure for limited (and short) durations. The welded assemblies are then tested mechanically to assess the adhesion kinetics. Results for Carbon/PEKK composite will be presented and discussed.