X-Ray Microtomograph Detection of Internal Defects for a UD Prepreg Composite

Abstract

The current trend particularly in industrial and commercial sectors is to search for alternatives to the current structural materials made from new lightweight materials. One option is to use unconventional material composite structures which have a combined fibre/matrix. Analysis of UD prepregs with unidirectional carbon fibres was performed. These special unconventional materials can be used for both flat and shaped structural products. The extent and quality of the saturation of the fibre layers in the resulting composite are important features for the whole complex of its parameters and influence its quality and mechanical properties. The experimental study also included an exploration of the inner structure and interactions of the individual components and detection of internal defects in the carbon UD prepreg composite using an X-ray microtomograph. The results illustrated the detection of microcracks, which significantly influence the resulting synergy of the composite and which were previously undetected.