Influence of processing methods on the tensile and flexure properties of high temperature composites

In this study, the influence of processing method on the mechanical properties of high temperature polymer matrix composites was evaluated. Three material systems were studied: PEEK(poly-ether-ether-ketone), PIXA-M, and a hybrid titanium composite laminate (HTCL). Two manufacturing processes were considered for consolidation of each material system: autoclave curing and induction heating. The tensile and flexural properties of the induction-heated materials were compared with their counterpart using the autoclave curing. Post fracture analyses were performed using optical and scanning electron micrography. Similarities and differences due to processing methods are discussed with possible reasoning for each, based on results and the post fracture analysis. These results indicate that the induction-heating process has potential as a cost-effective alternative to the autoclave curing process for consolidation of these high temperature composites.