Influence of processing methods on the tensile and flexure properties of high temperature composites

• Published in: Composites science and technology Vol. 64; no. 12; pp. 1763 - 1772
• Main Authors: Ramulu, M, Stickler, P.B, McDevitt, N.S, Datar, I.P, Kim, D, Jenkins, M.G
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford Elsevier Ltd 01.09.2004; Elsevier
• Subjects: A. Polymer matrix composite; Applied sciences; B. Mechanical properties; Composites; Exact sciences and technology; Forms of application and semi-finished materials; Hybrid laminate; Laminates; Polymer industry, paints, wood; Technology of polymers; Hybrid laminate; A. Polymer matrix composite; B. Mechanical properties; Laminate; Polyetheretherketone; Mechanical properties; Polymer; Tensile property; Hybrid composite; Composite material
• ISSN: 0266-3538; 1879-1050
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compscitech.2003.12.008

In this study, the influence of processing method on the mechanical properties of high temperature polymer matrix composites was evaluated. Three material systems were studied: PEEK(poly-ether-ether-ketone), PIXA-M, and a hybrid titanium composite laminate (HTCL). Two manufacturing processes were considered for consolidation of each material system: autoclave curing and induction heating. The tensile and flexural properties of the induction-heated materials were compared with their counterpart using the autoclave curing. Post fracture analyses were performed using optical and scanning electron micrography. Similarities and differences due to processing methods are discussed with possible reasoning for each, based on results and the post fracture analysis. These results indicate that the induction-heating process has potential as a cost-effective alternative to the autoclave curing process for consolidation of these high temperature composites.