Use of computed tomography to assess quality and structure of curved CFRP laminate samples produced by autoclave technology

Abstract

Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite laminates are widely used in parts with complex shapes with different curvatures. The curved regions are susceptible to the occurrence of manufacturing defects and premature in-service damage, thus the nondestructive inspection (NDI) of the curved regions is an important issue. X-ray computed tomography (CT) was used to assess the structure of CFRP composite laminate curved beams with different curvature geometry produced in the autoclave technology. The performed inspection allowed visualization of the structure of the curvatures on the ply level and the detection of defects such as foreign objects, voids, resin rich regions, wrinkles and changes in thickness. Also, the quantitative assessment of the defects and distances between the adjacent layers was carried out. The performed investigations show that X-ray CT is an adequate tool to visualize curved CFRP structures.