Manufacturing of multifunctional composites

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.