Experimentelle Bestimmung von signifikanten Einflussfaktoren auf die Herstellung von ultra dünnen kohlenstofffaserverstärkten Laminaten im T-RTM Verfahren

Fiber-reinforced thermoplastics have become increasingly important for industrial lightweight construction in recent years due to their lightweight potential, recyclability, and functional adaptability. Their numerous advantages make them increasingly attractive for electronic applications. Next-generation smartphones in particular require ultra-thin, mechanically robust, and thermally functional structural components that can be manufactured in a resource-efficient and scalable manner.

The manufacture of components using the T-RTM process has been the subject of several research projects for a number of years. To date, the process has not yet been established in industry due to its complexity. The multitude of influencing factors and their interactions on component quality and process robustness pose significant challenges.

This work aims to investigate the factors influencing the process for laminates with a thickness < 150 µm. To this end, these factors will first be determined theoretically. The most relevant influencing factors will then be experimentally investigated using statistical experimental design. The test specimens produced in this process will be characterized for further evaluation. The infrastructure available at Fraunhofer ICT (e.g., test benches, measurement and characterization systems) and the existing expertise will be made available for this purpose.

The aim is to identify the significant factors and thus create a basis for subsequent detailed analysis and optimization.

The work includes the following points:

• Familiarization with the topic of the T-RTM process
• Creation of an overview of the key influencing factors on the T-RTM process for the production of laminates with a thickness < 150 µm.
• Planning, implementation, and evaluation of T-RTM tests using suitable statistical methods in close cooperation with the supervising scientist
• Examination of individual process and material variables (e.g., temperature, pressure, etc.) for an enhanced understanding of the process
• Presentation and interpretation of significant influencing factors and potential interactions
• Derivation of an optimal process window as a basis for optimization