The objective of this project is to solidify the processing-microstructure-property relationship to improve predictions and processing times of thermosetting composite materials. This work aims to quantify the local microstructure of composites based on manufacturing-induced variations in the fibers and matrix.
This is an interdisciplinary project led by Prof. Maiaru and funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR). The project leverages different skills in the Mechanical Engineering and Mathematical Science Departments at UML. Specifically, Prof. Maiaru’s expertise in structural and thermochemical modeling, with Prof. Stapleton’s expertise in textile and fiber manufacturing, Prof. Liu’s experience in material science and imaging of microstructures, and Prof. Beke’s mathematical knowledge. Outcomes of this project are descriptors of fiber bundle entanglement at a micro-scale and predictors of local variations in both fibers and matrix, which are keys to enabling scatter prediction for material properties and the full utilization of lightweight composites.