Project Description: Carbon fibre composite materials are finding ever increasing use in high performance structural applications due to the unique combination of material strength, and low weight, they provide. Aerospace and space applications in particular represent sectors that have traditionally utilised carbon fibre extensively, and will continue to do so moving forward. Laser perforation of such materials is a relatively new area of application, but is of critical importance to the next generation of aircraft when it comes to potential de-icing systems as well as drag-reduction systems.

Previous work within the ACG has shown the laser perforation does not negatively impact the material properties of the composite. However this requires further study, both in terms of different reinforcement types, as well as different environmental exposure conditions. this project, in partnership with a UK Tier 1 aerospace manufacturer, will look to conduct further research into this field. The project will be heavily experimental, and will be supported by a PhD student based within the Advanced Composites Group (ACG).

Project objectives: The key aims/objectives for the project will be as follows:

(i) Conduct a literature review into the field of laser perforated, and laser cut composite materials to understand the effect of the process on materal properties.

(ii) Manufacture composite plaques for laser perforation at the industry project partner.

(iii) Conduct testing including tensile/flexural/compression/ILSS to gauge the effect of the laser perforation on the properties of the composite, with potential to expand and look into fatigue.

(iv) Conduct analysis of tested samples using various forms of microscopy to understand the failure mechanics of the composite samples.