Manufacturing of multifunctional composites
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Bristol
Department Name: Aerospace Engineering
Abstract
The project is to be carried out within a wider programme of research on 'Multifunctional Composites', aiming to integrate transport phenomena (electrical and thermal) functions at the material level. It is intended not just to add one function at a time but in true multifunctionality to optimize the overall product performance, including cost. There is a fundamental interest in design for multifunctionality, with a view of what the benefits and opportunities are for multifunctional composites - as well as the challenges in delivering a structurally reliable and certifiable multifunctional structure. In this specific project the experimental work will involve manoeuvring of multi-material sets of fibres into 2D and 3D dry fibre structures, using a range of specialist techniques such as microbraiding, automated fibre placement, tufting and weaving. The preforms will be infused with suitable resin and cured for microstructural analysis, coupled to specific tests to examine the level of functionality and structural integrity achieved.
Organisations
People |
ORCID iD |
Ivana Partridge (Primary Supervisor) | |
Caroline O'Keeffe (Student) |
Publications
O'Keeffe C
(2021)
Multi-material braids for multifunctional laminates: conductive through-thickness reinforcement
in Functional Composite Materials
Studentship Projects
Project Reference | Relationship | Related To | Start | End | Student Name |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
EP/N509619/1 | 30/09/2016 | 29/09/2021 | |||
2064116 | Studentship | EP/N509619/1 | 01/11/2017 | 29/04/2021 | Caroline O'Keeffe |
Title | Hybrid braid |
Description | multimaterial hybrid micro braid |
Type Of Art | Artefact (including digital) |
Year Produced | 2017 |
Impact | Provides greater multifunctionality for composite materials |
Description | Colston Research Society Travel Award |
Amount | £500 (GBP) |
Organisation | Colston Research Society |
Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
Country | United Kingdom |
Start | 07/2018 |
End | 10/2018 |
Title | Tuft rig for preforms |
Description | 3D printed a rig to enable tufting of awkward samples |
Type Of Material | Improvements to research infrastructure |
Year Produced | 2020 |
Provided To Others? | No |
Impact | ongoing |
Description | Engineering Outreach day: Rocket Building |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | Local |
Primary Audience | Schools |
Results and Impact | Small group of postgrads and RAs set up a design a rocket competition for school children. Each team designed and fired a rocket which deployed a parachute. The safe return of an egg to the ground was the aim. Engage with schools and increase interest in engineering degrees. Make a fun activity and design challenge |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018,2019 |