Abstract
A dedicated custom-built experimental setup and testing methodology were designed and manufactured for the investigation of the inter-ply friction behavior of Carbon/Epoxy fabric prepregs at varying interfacial temperatures, rates, and compaction pressures. The experimental parameters were selected in the ranges corresponding with those in the pregelation phase of the consolidation processes in autoclave processing of laminates and sandwich panels. A thorough understanding of the inter-ply frictional shear forces during the consolidation was obtained, suggesting a strong dependence on the process conditions and the dominance of mixed lubrication regime. Continuous experiments were conducted to determine the state of friction over the course of full-cure cycle. The observed differences were shown to be primarily dependent on both the resin viscosity and the distribution of the resin on the prepreg surface. Identification of dominating trends also suggested the high sensitivity of the results to the surface roughness of the prepreg.
Published Version
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