Rapid and Energy-Efficient Frontal Curing of Multifunctional Composites Using Integrated Nanostructured Heaters

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Traditional composite manufacturing is energy-intensive, costly, and time-consuming.
• Composites often lack essential non-structural functionalities like electrical conductivity.
• Existing methods require expensive equipment such as autoclaves and ovens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a rapid, energy-efficient manufacturing process for multifunctional composites.
• To eliminate the need for traditional, high-energy curing equipment.
• To integrate functionalities like deicing and structural health monitoring into composites.

Main Methods:

• Embedding a conductive nanostructured paper within the composite layup.
• Using the paper as a resistive heater to initiate frontal polymerization of the resin via electric current.
• Investigating the influence of processing parameters on electrothermal properties and frontal curing.

Main Results:

• Rapid composite curing (seconds to minutes) achieved without autoclaves or ovens.
• Fabrication of a 10 cm × 10 cm composite panel in 1 minute using significantly less energy (4.49 kJ).
• Demonstrated multifunctional capability through a successful deicing experiment.

Conclusions:

• The proposed method offers a sustainable and efficient alternative for composite manufacturing.
• The integrated nanostructured paper provides valuable in-service functionalities.
• This technology has significant potential for applications in aerospace and wind energy sectors.