Impact behaviour of 3D printed composites

This research investigates the impact behaviourand Compression After Impact (CAI) performance of 3D-printed composite materials, specifically focusing on continuous carbon fibre-reinforced Onyx matrixcomposites. The study analyses the effects of three distinct stacking configurations—Unidirectional (UD),Cross-Ply 1 (CP1), and Cross-Ply 2 (CP2)—on their response to impact and subsequent compressive loading.

This study examines the impact behaviour and CAI performance of 3D-printed composite materials, with aparticular focus on continuous carbon fibre-reinforced Onyx matrix composites. The research explores theeffects of three different stacking sequences—Unidirectional (UD), Cross-Ply 1 (CP1), and Cross-Ply 2 (CP2)—on their response to impact and subsequentcompressive loading. Impact testing revealed that UD samplesdemonstrated superior impact resistance, characterized by lower energy absorption and minimaldelamination, compared to CP1 and CP2 samples. X-ray CT scans identified delamination as thepredominant damage mechanism in all configurations, with CP1 and CP2 experiencing more extensivedamage, especially between the 0° and 90° layers. CAI testing showed a decrease in compressive strengthafter impact for all configurations, with CP1 and CP2 exhibiting a more pronounced reduction than UDsamples. The findings underscore the significance of stacking sequence in determining the mechanicalperformance of 3D-printed composites and highlight the importance of enhancing consistency in 3D printingprocesses to improve material properties.

“We are able to detect damage on 3D-Fibre composites and we can compare the void ratios after hot press process.”

Ozan Can Zehni, Henry Royce Institute, National Graphene Institute and Department of Materials, University of Manchester, UK, Research Associate

Collaborator: Akin Atas,Department of Mechanical, Aerospace & Civil Engineering, University of Manchester