Integrating electrostatic adhesion to composite structures

Abstract

Additional functionality within load bearing components holds potential for adding value to a structure, design or product. We consider the adaptation of an established technology, electrostatic adhesion or electroadhesion, for application in glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) composite materials. Electroadhesion uses high potential difference (~2-3 kV) between co-planar electrodes to generate temporary holding forces to both electrically conductive and non-conductive contact surfaces. Using a combination of established fabrication techniques, electroadhesive elements are co-cured within a composite host structure during manufacture. This provides an almost symbiotic relationship between the electroadhesive and the composite structure, with the electroadhesive providing an additional functionality, whilst the epoxy matrix material of the composite acts as a dielectric for the high voltage electrodes of the device. Silicone rubber coated devices have been shown to offer high shear load (85kPa) capability for GFRP components held together using this technique. Through careful control of the connection interface, we consider the incorporation of these devices within complete composite structures for additional functionality. The ability to vary the internal connectivity of structural elements could allow for incremental changes in connectivity between discrete sub-structures, potentially introducing variable stiffness to the global structure.

Electrostatic adhesion for added functionality of composite structures

“…( ) e e = Localised surface roughness and lack of planarity can, however, introduce an air gap between contact surfaces (figure 3(b)) [7,11]. This air gap leads to greater separation of the plates than expected, and also introduces a region of lower permittivity (figure 3(c)).…”

“…For this study a co-cure method developed in a previous study to integrate electrode devices into composite structures was used [11]. A thin film laminate of polyimide and copper provides the necessary electrodes for the application of electrostatic adhesion, whilst providing insulation from the host structure.…”

Importance of Interfacial Adhesion Condition on Characterization of Plant-Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites: A Review

“…This may be due to the fact that plant fibers are difficult or not preferred to be processed into a more ionic state. Some studies have reported the integrating electrostatic adhesion to composite structures reinforced with synthetic fibers (carbon or glass fibers) to strengthen the interface [ 33 , 34 , 35 ]. Electrostatic discharge treatment on polymer fibers or electrostatic fibers by electrospinning process could incorporate electrostatic adhesion to its interface and consequently could provide significant value-added functionality to the composites [ 36 , 37 ].…”

Utilizing Photocatalysts in Reducing Moisture Absorption in Composites of Natural Fibers

“…Electrostatic adhesion is a common bonding mechanism in which opposite charges (cathode and anode) are formed on the fiber and matrix surfaces. This results in two layers of opposite charges at the interface, which enhances the attraction between the fiber and matrix of the composite [47,48]. Electrostatic discharge treatments were applied to the surfaces of polymer and electrostatic fibers to promote electrostatic adhesion at the interface region between matrix and NFr, thereby improving the transfer the stress from matrix to NFr leading to enhancing performance of the NFr composites [49].…”