Robust numerical analysis of fibrous composites from X-ray computed tomography image data enabling low resolutions

X-ray computed tomography scans can provide detailed information about the state of the material after manufacture and in service. X-ray computed tomography aided engineering (XAE) was recently introduced as an automated process to transfer 3D image data to finite element models. The implementation of a structure tensor code for material orientation analysis in combination with a newly developed integration point-wise fibre orientation mapping allows an easy applicable, computationally cheap, fast, and accurate model set-up. The robustness of the proposed approach is demonstrated on a non-crimp fabric glass fibre reinforced composite for a low resolution case with a voxel size of 64 μm corresponding to more than three times the fibre diameter. Even though 99.8% of the original image data is removed, the simulated elastic modulus of the considered non-crimp fabric composite is only underestimated by 4.7% compared to the simulation result based on the original high resolution scan

Structural power composites

This paper introduces the concept of structural power composite materials and their possible devices and the rationale for developing them. The paper presents a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art, highlighting achievements related to structural battery and supercapacitor devices. The research areas addressed in detail for the two types of material devices include: carbon fibre electrodes, structural separators, multifunctional matrix materials, device architectures and material functionalization. Material characterisation, fabrication and validation are also discussed. The paper culminates in a detailed description of scientific challenges, both generic as well as device specific, that call for further research. Particular reference is given to work performed in national and European research projects under the leadership of the authors, who are able to provide a unique insight into this newly emerging and exciting field

Damage tolerance analysis of NCF composite sandwich panels

International audienc

Determination of transverse and shear moduli of single carbon fibres

Carbon fibres are extensively used for their high specific mechanical properties. Exploiting their high axial stiffness and strength, they are employed to reinforce polymer matrix materials in advanced composites. However, carbon fibres are not isotropic. Data of the elastic properties in the other directions of the fibres are still largely unknown. Furthermore, standardised methods to characterise these properties are lacking. In the present work, we propose a methodology to determine the transverse and shear moduli of single carbon fibres. An experimental procedure is developed to fabricate high-quality, flat fibre cross-sections in both longitudinal and transverse directions using Focused Ion Beam, which gives full control of the specimen geometry. Indentation modulus on those surfaces are obtained using both Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and nanoindentation tests. Hysteresis was found to occur in the nanoindentation tests. The hysteresis response was due to nano-buckling and reversible shear deformation of the carbon crystals. For this reason, indentation tests using AFM is recommended. From the AFM indentation tests the transverse and shear moduli of three different carbon fibres (IMS65, T800 and M60J) are successfully determined

Carbon Fibre Composite Structural Batteries: A Review

This paper presents a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art in structural battery composites research. Structural battery composites are a class of structural power composites aimed to provide mass-less energy storage for electrically powered structural systems. Structural battery composites are made from carbon fibres in a structural electrolyte matrix material. Neat carbon fibres are used as a structural negative electrode, exploiting their high mechanical properties, excellent lithium insertion capacity and high electrical conductivity. Lithium iron phosphate coated carbon fibres are used as the structural positive electrode. Here, the lithium iron phosphate is the electrochemically active substance and the fibres carry mechanical loads and conduct electrons. The surrounding structural electrolyte is lithium ion conductive and transfers mechanical loads between fibres. With these constituents, structural battery half-cells and full-cells are realised with a variety in device architecture. The paper also presents an overview of material modelling and characterisation performed to date. Particular reference is given to work performed in national and European research projects under the leadership of the authors, who are able to provide a unique insight into this emerging and exciting field of research.QC 20200929</p

Automated X-ray computer tomography segmentation method for finite element analysis of non-crimp fabric reinforced composites

In this study a complete procedure is presented of how to generate finite element models based on X-ray computer tomography data on the fibre bundle scale for non-crimp fabric reinforced composites. Non-crimp fabric reinforced composites are nowadays extensively used in the load carrying parts of wind turbine blades. Finite element analysis based on X-ray computer tomographic data will allow faster and cheaper developments of key material parameters. However, automated procedures for computer tomography data transfer into finite elements models are lacking. In the current study, an X-ray computer tomography aided engineering (XAE) process including a fully automated segmentation method and an element-wise material orientation mapping of X-Ray computer tomographic data is presented for the first time. The proposed methodology combines recent research progress and improvements in image analysis, and provides a fast, accurate and repeatable data transfer and analysis process with a high degree of automation

Stiffness-modifiable composite for pedestrian protection

A novel functional material allowing stiffness-reduction upon external stimulation was developed. Implementation of such technology in the design of a car front has high potential to result in increased protection of vulnerable road users (VRUs). The composite material is obtained by coating carbon fibres with a thermoplastic polymer in a continuous process, followed by infusion with an epoxy resin. The process is scalable for industrial use. The coating process was optimized regarding coating efficiency, energy consumption, risks involved for operating personnel and environment, and tailored to gain the optimal coating thickness obtained from numerical calculations. A drastic decrease in transversal stiffness could be detected for the composite material by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), when the temperature was increased above the glass transition temperature of the thermoplastic interphase. The ability of the material to achieve such temperature and associated reduction in stiffness by the application of current was verified using a special 3-point bending setup developed for this task

Dataset of non-crimp fabric reinforced composites for an X-ray computer tomography aided engineering process

This data in brief article describes a dataset used for an X-ray computer tomography aided engineering process consisting of X-ray computer tomography data and finite element models of non-crimp fabric glass fibre reinforced composites. Additional scanning electron microscope images are provided for the validation of the fibre volume fraction. The specimens consist of 4 layers of unidirectional bundles each supported by off-axis backing bundles with an average orientation on \ub180\ub0. The finite element models, which were created solely on the image data, simulate the tensile stiffness of the samples. The data can be used as a benchmark dataset to apply different segmentation algorithms on the X-ray computer tomography data. It can be further used to run the models using different finite element solvers