Short fibre / unidirectional hybrid thermoplastic composites: experimental characterisation and digital analysis

James Pheysey, Francesco De Cola, Francisca Martinez-Hergueta*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract / Description of output

This paper explores the use of compression moulding to produce structural hybrid composites based on short-fibre composites, combining a short-fibre core and uni-directional (UD) skins. A parametric study on processing parameters found low consolidation pressures provided a higher repeatability of the manufacturing process. The best mechanical response of the hybrid laminate was obtained through a 2-step consolidation process due to an increased fibre volume fraction. Despite a moderate 21.5% increase in cost compared to the short fibre material, the hybrid panels showed large increases in mechanical properties with an outstanding increase in flexural modulus of 330.4%. A semi-analytical constitutive model of the short fibre composite was developed to determine the variability in the mechanical response due to the stochastic microstructure. The results predicted a low scatter in strength, compatible with the requirements of structural applications. This study opens the path to the development of sustainable thermoplastic composites from recycled short-fibre compounds.
Original languageEnglish
Article number108121
JournalComposites part a-Applied science and manufacturing
Volume181
Early online date5 Mar 2024
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jun 2024

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Short fibre / unidirectional hybrid thermoplastic composites: experimental characterisation and digital analysis'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this