Compressive failure of complex NCF composite structures

Research Project, 2013 – 2019

The current research project is carried out in response to an industrial need of cost-
effective CFRP components in load carrying parts of the engine. The preferred route is an automated, out-of-autoclave manufacturing method using resin transfer moulding (RTM) with a non crimp fabric (NCF) as reinforcement. Carbon fibre/Epoxy composites reinforced with NCF offer potential cost savings over tape based prepreg materials, with good mechanical properties - close to that of prepreg type composites. For this reason, NCF-reinforced composites provide an interesting alternative to prepregs for the aerospace industry. One limiting factor for their use in primary structures is their relatively low strength in compression. The overall goal of this research project is to further understand the compressive behaviour of NCF composites and to develop a strength assessment method for the aerospace industry.