On the methodological measurements of viscosity of unidirectional Flax/PP composites: Towards a benchmark

Abstract

Abstract Understanding the viscosity behaviour of the pre-impregnated thermoplastic composites is crucial for optimizing manufacturing processes and ensuring the end product’s performance. Reviewing prior research on this topic reveals that viscosity measurements have encountered numerous difficulties, resulting in unclear interpretations and complexities in data processing. The variations in viscosity can be influenced by factors such as cavity thickness, temperature, and compression rate. The objective of this work was to enhance the reliability of results, taking a step toward initiating a benchmark for viscosity measurements of pre-impregnated thermoplastic. The study focuses on transverse squeeze flow experiments of UD flax/polypropylene (PP) for viscosity measurements.