Abstract
In this study, the viscosity of unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic (CFRTP) laminates near their melting point was evaluated to discuss the relationship between the thermal fusion conditions and the flow of the fibers and matrix. The laminates were regarded as a fluid flowing in the direction perpendicular to the fibers. The microscopic flow of the fibers and matrix was observed during a parallel plate compression test conducted near the melting point. On the basis of this observation, the viscosity and flow properties were evaluated by the finite element method (FEM). The results of the parallel plate compression test showed that the test conditions and the decrease in the thickness of the laminates are related to the apparent viscosity of the unidirectional plate. In addition, cracks in the direction of the maximum shear stress were detected via in situ observation near the melting point of the matrix. The occurrence of this phenomenon depended on the apparent viscosity of the unidirectional laminates, and it was found that no cracks occurred when the apparent maximum viscosity of the unidirectional laminates was lower than a threshold.
Published Version
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