The Fabrication, Processing and Characterization of Multidimensionally Braided Graphite/Epoxy Composite Materials
Abstract
This report describes research concerning the braiding, resin impregnation and characterization of multidimensionally braided fiber reinforced composite materials. These materials are an alternative to conventional laminated composite structures and have the potential for being more damage tolerant. The braiding process in initially described, indicating the methodology used and the potential applications for this material. Next, three processes are described which have been used for resin impregnation of the multidimensionally braided panels characterized in this study. Two were resin transfer techniques utilizing vacuum or pressure as the transferring machanism while the third was a resin film lamination technique. While all three methods are presented, the latter technique was chosen for impregnating the test specimens due to the consistently low void content and superior surface quality achieved. Three graphite fiber systems were used in this investigation. These were braided into panels in which three braid parameters could be investigated. The variables investigated include the effect of edge condition, braid pattern, and tow size on the tensile, compressive, flexural and interlaminar shear properties. These properties were obtained in the braid direction only.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA148729
Entities
People
- A. B. Macander
- David W Taylor
- E. T. Camponeschi Jr.
- R. M. Crane