Research project: Parameterisation and optimisation of impact and post-impact performance of composites for airframe light weighting

The use of carbon fibre reinforced plastics in the transport sector has been increasing in recent times. However, the main concern about using carbon composites is due to their poor resistance to impact damage. Even when damage is not clearly visible on the surface of the material, internal damage may still significantly reduce the composite's properties. Although there are several forms of toughening mechanisms that can improve a composite's resistance to impact damage, there is relatively little knowledge surrounding the micromechanical responses that can now be observed using Computed Tomography (CT). This project will apply an innovative Data Rich Mechanics approach to the problem of assessing and predicting impact performance (damage resistance and damage tolerance) in carbon-fibre reinforces plastics. This will be achieved through the use of 3-D Computed Tomography, and related/complementary methods, generating the necessary quantitative tools for future light-weighting of aerospace and other transport sector applications of fibre reinforced plastics.