Particle deposition mechanisms during processing of advanced composite materials

Liquid composite moulding of advanced composite materials often comprises infiltration of a particle-filled resin into a multi-scale porous fabric. These injections/infusions are subject to severe particle depositions inside the reinforcement, leading to undesired inhomogeneous mechanical and functional properties. Hence, the mechanisms for particle depositions are investigated by detailed meso-scale experiments, analysed by microscopic imaging and micro-particle image velocimetry, and macroscopic infusions of a biaxial non-crimp fabric. It is shown that two main particle deposition mechanisms are filtration during fibre bundle impregnation and filtration induced by stationary flow through fibre bundles. It is also clarified where in the reinforcement the particles will deposit. Finally, a number of suggestions on how to process advanced composite materials with a more homogeneous particle distribution are launched. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.