On the mechanical properties of continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites realized through vacuum infusion

Continuous glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites have been manufactured and their mechanical properties have been evaluated. A catalyzed monomer is infused through a stack of compacted dry reinforcement under vacuum. The monomer undergoes radical polymerization with a peroxide catalyst. Viscosity and reactivity profile have been characterized to determine the catalyst concentration and temperature of infusion. Glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites realized through this method have mechanical properties that are comparable with that of epoxy with an added advantage of excellent toughness and repairability. For example, the residual compressive strength of thermoplastic composites after low-velocity impact is found to be over 140% more than that of epoxy-based composites using the same reinforcement and realized under identical manufacturing methods.