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Automated Quantification of Interlaminar Delaminations in Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Polymers via High-Resolution
Khaled Matalgah1, Pruthul Kokkada Ravindranath1, Daniel Pulipati1
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Baylor University, One Bear Place, #97356, Waco, TX 76798-7356, USA.
Polymers
|December 23, 2023
Summary
Ultrasonic testing (UT) accurately detects and quantifies interlaminar delaminations in carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites. This method provides high-resolution imaging for precise defect location and extent analysis, crucial for structural integrity.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Non-Destructive Testing
- Composite Materials Engineering
Background:
- Interlaminar delaminations are critical defects in Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) composites, compromising structural integrity.
- Accurate detection and quantification of these delaminations are essential for safety and performance.
- Existing methods may lack the resolution or depth-sensing capabilities required for comprehensive analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present and validate a high-resolution ultrasonic testing (UT) method for detecting and quantifying interlaminar delaminations in CFRP composites.
- To compare the effectiveness of UT with X-ray computed tomography (CT) for delamination assessment.
- To evaluate the capability of UT in determining the depth and extent of delaminations.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of unidirectional and woven CFRP laminates with embedded PTFE film as artificial delamination sites.
- Mechanical testing using a three-point, end-notched flexure (ENF) test to induce delaminations.
- Quantification of delamination extent using both Ultrasonic Testing (UT) and X-ray Computed Tomography (CT).
- Comparative analysis of UT and CT data, including depth localization studies.
Main Results:
- UT successfully detected and quantified interlaminar delaminations in both unidirectional and woven CFRP composites.
- Comparable results were obtained between UT and CT, with an average delamination area difference of 1.09% (UT slightly overestimating).
- UT accurately predicted delamination depth within one lamina interface for all tested samples.
- High spatial resolution in planar dimensions and depth was achieved by the UT method.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasonic testing (UT) is a highly effective, high-resolution technique for detecting and quantifying interlaminar delaminations in CFRP composites.
- The developed UT method provides accurate assessment of delamination extent and depth, crucial for material characterization.
- UT offers a reliable non-destructive evaluation tool for ensuring the structural integrity of CFRP components subjected to bending stresses.
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