Effect of Processing Parameters on Consolidation Quality of GF/PP Commingled Yarn Based Composites

Abstract

Investigations have been carried out to study the effect of processing parameters, namely holding time, temperature, and pressure, on the consolidation quality and mechanical properties of GF/PP commingled yam based composites. The consolidation quality has been defined in terms of the void content in the laminate, and the mechanical property of the composite studied was short-span flexural strength. The results show that the greatest effect on the strength is due to processing temperature, followed by holding time. The increased strength due to increased holding time has been explained in terms of a decrease in void content and increased interfacial fiber-matrix adhesion.A statistical model was developed for optimizing processing parameters, and the results show excellent prediction of the required process parameters. It can be concluded that the statistical design methodology provides a useful means of studying and optimizing the processing parameters in the production of composites.