Comparing the performance of different thermoplastic matrix pre-impregnated materials

摘要: The aim of the present work is comparing performance different available thermoplastic pre-impregnated raw-materials produced by methods. In last years, replaced with success thermosetting as matrices long/continuous fiber reinforced composites due to numerous advantages they present. However, it remains a challenge developing technologies wet and impregnate fibers matrices, characterized for being much more viscous than thermosets [1, 2]. Today, two major are used reinforcing polymers 2]: i) direct melting polymer and, ii) intimate fiber/matrix contact prior final composite fabrication. Continuous matrix tapes are, example, processes. Alternatively, processes allow producing cheap promising materials, such as, commingled fibers, co-woven fabrics towpregs. This studies compares processability into parts three both above mentioned wetting techniques,. All studied materials were based on continuous glass polypropylene (GF/PP) system. One tape in previous [3] process (cross-head extrusion) from other methods, one commercial product towpreg our own developed dry coating prototype line [4]. Pultrusion compression molding manufacturing methods selected all parts. GF/PP was assessed properties manufactured submitted mechanical testing microscopy analysis. Acknowledgements authors wish thank Engineering School ofthe University Minho, PIEP – Pole Innovation Polymer Polytechnic Porto, support given this work. They also acknowledge Portuguese Foundation Science Technology financial IPC through project PEst-C/CTM/LA0025/2013 (Strategic Project LA 25 2013-2014).