Multifunctional Metal-C-Fiber-Polymer-Laminates (MCFRP): Modeling and property analysis for damage tolerant, conductive and monitorable lightweight structures

• Applicants: Professor Dr.-Ing. Frank Balle; Professor Dr.-Ing. Ulf Breuer
• Subject Area: Polymeric and Biogenic Materials and Derived Composites ; Materials in Sintering Processes and Generative Manufacturing Processes ; Mechanical Properties of Metallic Materials and their Microstructural Origins
• Term: from 2013 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 247753290

Multiple and often conflicting requirements have to be fulfilled by innovative, high-performance structures of transportation systems. They must demonstrate low mass, high load bearing capability and high damage tolerance. Within the scope of two research projects , hybrid laminates with carbon fibers and metal fibers (MCFRP) were manufactured, combining multiple functions within one composite. It could be demonstrated that locally concentrated layers of steel fibers improve damage tolerance as well as electrical conductivity. In addition, it was shown that the integration of metastable austenitic steel fibers enables the application of magnetic sensors for contact-less assessment and monitoring of loaded structures due to deformation-induced phase transformation of the metastable steel fibers. Based on these fundamental findings, more applied questions will be now adressed in order to investigate the limits and prospects of the new hybrid material. Suitable simulation models have to defined and experimentally verified for the fundamental mechanical as well as electrical laminate properties. In addition, detailed fatigue experiments and impact tests of hybrid laminates are planned at low and high temperatures within the typical limits applied to airframe materials. Finally, the new findings and models are verified by the design and experimental characterization of a multifunctional generic structural element.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Co-Investigators: Professor Dr.-Ing. Tilmann Beck; Dr.-Ing. Sebastian Schmeer
• Cooperation Partner: Professor Dr. Marco Rahm