Effect of thermoplastic resin transfer molding process and flame surface treatment on mechanical properties of carbon fiber reinforced polyamide 6 composite

The thermoplastic resin transfer molding (T‐RTM) process for carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic polymer composites (CFRTP) were experimentally investigated and optimized using high‐pressure resin transfer molding system for mass production. The CFRTP was manufactured by Anionic ring opening polymerization of the T‐RTM process and the curing process was analyzed by in situ cure monitoring using dielectrometry. Mechanical properties, productivity, and crystal structures of the PA 6 matrix and CFRTP were evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry, X‐ray diffraction analysis, tensile, and interlaminar shear strength tests. The crystallinity, impregnation quality and process speed were determined by the curing temperature. In addition, a time‐ and cost‐effective flame surface treatment was developed to remove moisture from the carbon fiber and increase the interfacial bonding strength of the CFRTP. As a result, optimal T‐RTM processing conditions were suggested for realizing maximum productivity and mechanical properties for the CFRTP.