Characterization of Joints between Carbon Fiber Composite Parts Using a Microstrip Transmission Line Method.

Area of Science:

• Aerospace Engineering
• Materials Science
• Electromagnetics

Background:

• Aerial platforms increasingly use nonmetallic composite materials, altering their electromagnetic performance.
• The electromagnetic environmental effects (E3) behavior of these composite structures, especially concerning joints, is not well-understood compared to metallic counterparts.
• Electrical discontinuities in joints can significantly impact an aircraft's electromagnetic behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the electromagnetic performance of joints in aerial platforms made primarily from nonmetallic composite materials.
• To investigate how joint characteristics influence electromagnetic behavior and identify potential defects.
• To provide a foundation for understanding and improving the E3 resilience of composite aircraft.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a microstrip line measurement system to characterize joints in carbon fiber composite (CFC) samples.
• Evaluated joints in CFC samples with varying numbers of plies.
• Developed approximated models to describe joint behavior and detect manufacturing defects.

Main Results:

• Successfully characterized the electromagnetic behavior of joints in CFC samples.
• Demonstrated the capability of the microstrip line system to assess different joint configurations.
• Developed models for joint behavior and identified methods for defect detection in the joining process.

Conclusions:

• The characterization of joints in nonmetallic aerial platforms is essential for understanding their electromagnetic performance.
• The proposed microstrip line system offers a flexible method for evaluating these joints and detecting defects.
• Further research into joint behavior is critical for enhancing the electromagnetic compatibility and E3 resilience of composite aircraft.