Effects of staged curing on mechanical properties of thermosetting matrix composites

S. R. White, Y. K. Kim

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

The effects of staged curing technique on the interlaminar fracture toughness, in-plane shear strength and void content were investigated experimentally. The specimens were fabricated with Hercules AS4-3501/6 unidirectional prepreg tape. Two types of staged curing cycles were considered along with the manufacturer's recommended cure cycle. The void content of each specimen was observed after testing to qualify its effect on mechanical test results. It was shown that no degradation in interlaminar fracture toughness or interlaminar shear strength could be found for the cure cycles used in the study. A reduction in void content was obtained by utilizing a cooldown stage between compaction and curing. The results show that the staged curing technique can be utilized to make thick composite laminates which are uniformly compacted with reduced void contents.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of the American Society for Composites
PublisherPubl by Technomic Publ Co Inc
Pages69-79
Number of pages11
ISBN (Print)0877629978
StatePublished - 1992
EventProceedings of the 7th Technical Conference of the American Society for Composites - University Park, PA, USA
Duration: Oct 13 1992Oct 15 1992

Other

OtherProceedings of the 7th Technical Conference of the American Society for Composites
CityUniversity Park, PA, USA
Period10/13/9210/15/92

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Chemical Engineering(all)
  • Chemical Engineering (miscellaneous)
  • Building and Construction
  • Polymers and Plastics

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