Degassing and layers variation effect on composite processing by vacuum assisted resin transfer moulding

Abstract

Vacuum assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) is a fiber reinforced composite (FRC) making process in which resin is impregnated to fabric by application of vacuum. This process is also known as vacuum infusion process. The critical issue in VARTM process is void generation. Voids form due to variety of reasons, most of which can be avoided. Vacuum degassing is one of the solutions which will reduce air entrapped inside resin during impregnation. In this work six laminates from jute and polyester resin were prepared, three with degassing and three without degassing with variation in number of jute layers 5, 10 and 15 respectively. Microscopic examination and mechanical properties have been observed before and after degassing. It was observed that degassing improves mechanical properties of composite laminates and reduce void content. It was observed that the thickness variation in laminate increased as number of layer increased.