DFG-SCFRP

This DFG project focuses on the enhancements of the electrical and mechanical key properties.

Carbon fiber epoxy composites (CFRP) offer superior weight specific mechanical properties. However, their brittle failure behavior limits the damage tolerance during impact and crash events. Furthermore, the electrical conductivity is insufficient for various applications. Former research attempts tried to overcome these drawbacks by modifying the resin system, but could not prove sufficient improvements. A different approach is the incorporation of highly conductive and ductile steel fibers into the CFRP. First test results prove an increased electrical conductivity. At the same time, the deflection in case of bending load and therefore the potential energy absorption can significantly be risen. The results suggest that an allocation of steel fibers in core or top layers is advantageous over a homogenous steel fiber distribution. Future work will transfer the gained knowledge to composites with optimized lay-up, complemented by further analysis, e.g. CAI, fatigue, corrosion resistance. This DFG project focuses on the enhancements of the electrical and mechanical key properties. In addition, the usability of integrated austenitic steel fibers in CFRP for in-situ health monitoring and inductive heating for advanced manufacturing processes will be investigated.