Ex-situ concept for toughening the RTMable BMI matrix composites. II. Improving the compression after impact

Qunfeng Cheng, Zhengping Fang, Xiao Su Yi, Xuefeng An, Bangming Tang, Yahong Xu

Research output: Journal PublicationArticlepeer-review

25 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The compression after impact (CAI) properties of bismaleimide (BMI) matrix composites manufactured by resin transfer molding (RTM) were significantly improved by ex-situ RTM technique. The thermoplastic polyetherketone with a functional group of Phenolphthalein (PAEK) was used as toughener. The optical microscopy images of the cross-section of post-impact specimens revealed that the delamination resistance of specimens toughened through ex-situ RTM technique was dramatically improved. The energy absorption mechanism of composites toughened through ex-situ RTM technique was changed from the delamination to fiber fracture, which contributed to the improvement in CAI. The particle microstructure in interlaminar region of composites toughened through ex-situ RTM technique revealed that a reaction-induced phase decomposition and inversion happened in the interlaminar region. The BMI particles were surrounded with the PAEK phase, which can significantly improve the delamination resistance of composites. The in-plane static mechanical properties of G827/BMI composite toughened through ex-situ RTM technique were very well kept.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)2211-2217
Number of pages7
JournalJournal of Applied Polymer Science
Volume108
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 May 2008
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Composites
  • Compression after impact
  • Ex-situ RTM technique
  • Mechanical properties
  • Microstructure

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Chemistry
  • Surfaces, Coatings and Films
  • Polymers and Plastics
  • Materials Chemistry

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