Cure monitoring of graphite/epoxy composites by scaling analysis and heat flux sensors

Mark J. Perry*, L. James Lee, C. W. Lee

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalConference articlepeer-review

Abstract

The temperature distribution and the degree of cure of graphite/epoxy composites are governed by heat conduction and the exothermic reaction of epoxy resins. Determination of the major heat transfer and reaction characteristics were carried out by a scaling analysis. Exothermic reaction is best described by a lumped parameter, Damkohler number (Da). The value and/or change of Da can be used to establish rules for the control of heat transfer in order to reduce the cycle time and prevent the thermal runaway problem. The change of Da at any given spot in the composite can be estimated by two heat flux sensors or by three closely displaced thermocouples. Experimental verification of this technique and the application of this technique to on-line process control or automation will be presented.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1251-1264
Number of pages14
JournalNational SAMPE Symposium and Exhibition (Proceedings)
Volume35
Issue numberpt 2
StatePublished - Apr 1990
Event35th International SAMPE Symposium and Exhibition - Advanced Materials: the Challenge for the Next Decade. Part 2 - Anaheim, CA, USA
Duration: 2 Apr 19905 Apr 1990

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