Externships of early-stage researchers from WUT at TU Dresden

28 April 2023.

2 PhD students from WUT Katarzyna Ziętkowska and Michał Misiak stayed at TU Dresden's Institute of Lightweight Engineering and Polymer Technology (ILK) in April 2023 for 10 days.

During their stay, 30 CFRP and GFRP laminates were made using an open-mould press. Efforts were made to integrate PZT sensors and conductive fibers into the structure of the laminates. In addition, in the case of CFRP, attempts were made to introduce veils as an insulating layer to separate the conductive fibers and PZT sensors from the carbon fibers.

They were accompanied by the Senior Researcher from TPF Dr. Rafal Kozera, who participated in preparation of textile using automated cutter, composites preparation methodology, pressing process.

During the visit, it was possible to gain new technical knowledge about one of the methods of manufacturing CFRP and GFRP laminates which is open-mold pressing with modern equipment. There were also discussions on other possibilities for manufacturing CFRP and GFRP such as the possibility of using autoclave technology.

After making the first attempts to produce composite panels with PZT sensors and conductive fibers, a decision was made to modify the research work plan and the manufacturing method. 6 new tasks have been proposed: CNT-doped filaments as strain gauges; Conductive CNT-doped strips as heater for thermography; Conductive CNT-doped veils as delamination sensors; Integration of PZT sensors; Insulation of sensors; Connection wires and contact points.