Abstract
We have investigated the release of gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from a carbon fibre reinforced epoxy composite matrix used in aircraft structural components. Analysis was performed at several temperatures both up to and above the recommended operating temperature (121 °C) for the material, to a maximum of 250 °C. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) combined with thermal desorption (TD-GC-MS) was used to identify and quantify VOCs, and in parallel real-time gas detection with commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) gas sensors. Under hydrocarbon free air, CO, SO2, NO, NO2 and VOCs (mainly aldehydes, ketones and a carboxylic acid) were detected as the gaseous products released during the thermal exposure of the material up to 250 °C, accompanied by increased relative humidity (4%). At temperatures up to 150 °C, gas and volatile emission was limited.
Highlights
This study aimed to investigate the influence of thermal exposure of carbon fibre reinforced epoxy composite on the production of gaseous emissions and its potential for impact on the on-board air quality
A parallel approach was used, employing real-time gas detection accomplished with commercial gas sensors and the use of sorbent tubes further analysed by thermal desorption (TD)-GC-MS
When compared with emission rate data, the magnitude of the weight loss is too great to be accounted for by degradation of the epoxy, so may be attributed to loss of adsorbed water, a conclusion that is supported by the levels of excess relative humidity observed
Summary
This study aimed to investigate the influence of thermal exposure of carbon fibre reinforced epoxy composite on the production of gaseous emissions and its potential for impact on the on-board air quality
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