Manufacturing and evaluation of composite materials using microwave curing

Important results from the project

The aim of the current project was to present a proof of concept for microwave curing in polymeric composite materials. This project is a very successful project. Composite laminates were successfully cured using a microwave and tested mechanically. Mechanical properties of the laminates cured in the microwave and the laminate cured in the oven were investigated and compared together. It was clearly shown that curing composite laminates with microwave can provide laminates with very good quality, high mechanical properties (Stiffness and Strength) and with consuming less energy.

Expected long term effects

5 different curing cycles were applied: One laminate was cured using an oven (reference laminate) and 4 laminates were cured using a microwave where different durations of curing (20 min, 30 min and 60 min) were applied. Samples were prepared and tested from each laminate. Results: A good quality of laminates was obtained for all laminates cured in the microwave By microwave curing of composite, a huge amount of energy was saved comparing to curing with an oven. The laminate cured in the microwave for 60 minutes showed the optimum mechanical properties (highest stiffness and strength)

Approach and implementation

During this project, all partners have potentially contributed to all action. Within this project a master thesis was successfully run between Uppsala University and PercyRoc. During this project, a great communication was presented between all partners. As a continuation of this project, an SMF Flyg proposal Level 2 was submitted where the plan is to use microwave to repair composite structures. Eureka SMART could be also one call where all partners are planning to submit a proposal to continue the current outcomes.