Title: Development of Unidirectional Carbon Prepreg Using a Solvent Dip Process

Authors: Michael Standiford, Cecile Grubb, Nicole Larson

DOI: 10.33599/nasampe/s.21.0499

Abstract: The vast majority of commercially available unidirectional carbon fiber prepregs are manufactured using a hot-melt process. Prepregs that are manufactured using this process typically yield some of the highest mechanical properties, though this performance comes at a higher price point. A need exists for the development of a unidirectional carbon fiber prepreg that maintains expected mechanical properties while reducing the manufacturing cost. Western Washington University and Norplex-Micarta have partnered together to develop a unidirectional carbon fiber prepreg using a solvent dip process. WWU’s laboratory scale solvent prepreg treater system was used to develop an epoxy-based unidirectional carbon prepreg using VectorPly’s C-LA-1812 reinforcement system. Prepregs were characterized for resin content, volatile content and resin flow in accordance with Norplex-Micarta testing standards. Resin distribution was determined using non-contact ultrasound (NCU) analysis. Mechanical testing laminates were made using compression molding to test the mechanical properties of the prepreg, including tensile, flexural, and short-beam shear properties in order to establish a direct comparison with other thermoset prepregs that use a hot-melt processing system.

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Conference: SAMPE NEXUS 2021

Publication Date: 2021/06/29

SKU: TP21-0000000499

Pages: 16

Price: FREE