Optimization of the Temperature-Time Curve for the Curing Process of Thermoset Matrix Composites
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Optimization of the Temperature-Time Curve for the Curing Process of Thermoset Matrix Composites Dragan Aleksendrić 1 & Pierpaolo Carlone 2 & Velimir Ćirović 1
Received: 6 May 2016 / Accepted: 13 May 2016 # Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht 2016
Abstract An intelligent optimization model aiming at off-line or pre-series optimization of the thermal curing cycle of polymer matrix composites is proposed and discussed. The computational procedure is based on the coupling of a finite element thermochemical process model, dynamic artificial neural networks and genetic algorithms. Objective of the optimization routine is the maximization of the composite degree of cure by the definition of the autoclave temperature. Obtained outcomes evidenced the capability of the method as well as its efficiency with respect to hard computing or experimental procedures. Keywords Optimization . Curing process . Artificial neural network . Genetic algorithm
1 Introduction Polymeric matrix composite materials (PMC) have gained a great deal of consideration as a suitable alternative to metallic materials for the realization of light weight structures. Indeed, the unique physical and mechanical properties exhibited made PMC very attractive in applicative sectors, where weight saving is a driving force for further developments [1]. Even if thermoplastic resins are preferable taking into account some recyclability issues, most of composite products are currently realized using thermoset resins as matrix material, due to manufacturing simplicity. Indeed, thermoset matrices are generally processed starting from
* Dragan Aleksendrić [email protected]
1
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Belgrade, Kraljice Marije 16, 11120 Belgrade 35, Serbia
2
Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy
Appl Compos Mater
catalysed liquid resin. This mixture is characterized by low molecular weight and viscosity, making the impregnation process of the reinforcing fibers relatively easier [2]. Thermal curing is a common manufacturing step employed to enhance PMC mechanical properties. During the curing process, the thermal energy provided to the composite increases the work piece temperature, reducing material viscosity and activating the cure reaction. Then, the crosslinking of monomers promotes the increase of degree of cure (DoC) and viscosity until part solidification. It is well known that durability, interlaminar shear strength and modulus development in PMCs mainly rely on temperature history (affecting the cure reaction) and void percentage at the end of the curing process [3–5]. As a general rule, the higher is the curing temperature, the higher are the reaction rate and final DoC. However, some limitations are imposed by excessive temperature peaks (potentially inducing resin degradation) as well as by temperature gradients and solidification direction (promoting the development of thermal stresses) [6, 7]. Nowadays, most of thermal curing proces
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