| Abstract [eng] |
In recent years, 3D printed continuous carbon fiber reinforced composite materials gained popularity in multiple industries mainly due to their mechanical properties. These composites provide reduced weight while keeping the same strength when compared to metals is greatly desirable in aerospace, automotive, biomedical, sports, and other industries. In addition to their mechanical properties continuous carbon fiber reinforced composites have numerous advantages, for instance, electrical properties, anti-corrosive properties and environmental impact reduction during manufacturing. Recent advancements in 3D printing technology allow to manufacture CCFRP structures rapidly with minimal wasted materials and with excellent mechanical and electrical characteristics. CCFRP composite electrical properties, such as, piezo resistivity can be beneficial in numerous applications from fatigue monitoring to structure health evaluation and load sensing. Previous research on 3D printed CCFRP composites and testing methodologies are analyzed. Testing methodology for resistance measurement during cyclical dynamic loading, as well as, static loading is developed. Piezo resistive properties of 3D printed CCFRP composites are evaluated in this project. The aim of this project is to investigate the electrical resistance of 3D printed continuous carbons fiber reinforced composite structures. There are multiple tasks to achieve the aim identified: (1) to produce unidirectional 0° and 0°-90° composite structures with various carbon fiber content; (2) to test electrical resistance of composite structures under static loading; (3) to test electrical resistance of composite structures under dynamic loading; (4) to evaluate correlation between carbon fiber content and electrical resistance measured; (5) to evaluate economic benefits of 3D printed carbon fiber reinforced composite sensors. Test specimens are 3D printed and processed for resistance measurement. Testing results are analyzed and suggestions are given. Economic benefits of 3D printing CCFRP sensors are analyzed. Conclusions drawn for static and dynamic loading of the test specimens. The findings of this project suggest that 3D printed CCFRP composites are suitable to be used as load sensors in various applications and may offer safety and space saving benefits. |
