Smart graphene enabled preforms

The carbon fiber (CF) preforming process is one of the rate-limiting steps in composite manufacturing. Lack of control over the raw materials during the preforming process leads to inconsistent production. Batch-to-batch variations are unavoidable as molding environments remain undetected during the preforming process especially during the stacking up of the fabric plies and placing of the fabric preform into the mold cavity. This study aims to create high-quality composites structural parts made from CF performs and establish an understanding of the use of graphene nano-platelets (GNPs) as a smart fabric coating that allows the sensing and monitoring of the preforming process. In addition to the preform monitoring the mechanical reinforcing by graphene imparts additional functionality into the cured composite part. The ultimate outcome of this study will be an inexpensive, reliable way to manufacture highly uniform CF preforms.