Using Embossing to Create a Fiber Reinforced Honeycomb Composite

Abstract

This research project used hot embossing to create a strong and tough polymeric based composite structure. A honeycomb type structure was created by pressing small grooves into thin polycarbonate sheets. A trapezoidal die was used to create hexagonal shaped channels in the polymeric sheet. A number of these sheets were then bonded together to form a composite material. Carbon fibers were embedded into the channels in some of the laminates. The embossing process was carried out at an elevated temperature in an environmental chamber attached to an MTS servo hydraulic testing machine. The grooved structure had a 31% to 45% decrease in the apparent density compared to the ungrooved specimens. Bend tests, tensile tests, and Charpy impact tests were performed on laminates made from this material. The specific values of tensile strength, flexural modulus, and Charpy impact toughness were increased. A small percentage of fibers significantly increased both the stiffness and strength of the laminate.