Bubble Shape and Transport During LCM Processes: Experimental Modeling in a T-Junction Tube

TL;DR

This paper investigates bubble shape and movement during Liquid Composite Molding in T-junction tubes through experimental modeling, focusing on void formation in fibrous preforms to improve composite material quality.

Contribution

It provides experimental insights into bubble dynamics and void formation mechanisms during LCM processes in T-junction configurations.

Findings

Bubble shape influences void formation

Transport behavior affects final composite quality

Experimental modeling reveals key dynamics

Abstract

Long fiber composite materials can be elaborated by Liquid Composite Molding (LCM), a family of processes where fibrous preforms are injected by a low viscosity resin. During this process, we have to pay particular attention to the void formation inside the preform because it could modify the material final characteristics. Indeed, a preform presents two different porosity scales: between yarns called macropores and inside yarns, namely micropores.