ENCOMB

Extended Non-Destructive Testing of Composite Bonds

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 Obiettivo del progetto (Objective)

'Even though composite materials are already used in the manufacturing of structural components in aeronautics industry a consequent light-weight design of CFRP primary structures is limited due to a lack of adequate joining technologies. In general, adhesive bonding is the optimum technique for joining CFRP light-weight structures, but difficulties in assessing the bond quality by non-destructive testing (NDT) limit its use for aircraft structural assembly. In consequence certification by the regulation authorities is restrictive. In order to implement robust and reliable quality assurance procedures for adhesive bonding, the main objective of ENCOMB (Extended Non-Destructive Testing for Composite Bonds) is the identification, development and adaptation of methods suitable for the assessment of the adhesive bond quality. Since the performance of adhesive bonds depends on the physico-chemical properties of adherend surfaces and adhesives, testing methods for adhesive and adherend surface characterisation will also be developed. The implementation of reliable adhesive bonding processes by advanced quality assurance will lead to an increased use of light-weight composite materials for highly integrated structures minimising rivet based assembly. The expected weight savings for the fuselage airframe are up to 15 %. These weight savings will have further effects on the size and weight of the engines. From the overall weight savings, significant reductions in fuel consumption (direct costs) and hence CO2 emissions per passenger-kilometre will result. In ENCOMB, a multidisciplinary consortium of 14 partners from top-level European research organisations, universities and industries brings together leading experts from all relevant fields. The participation of three major European aircraft manufacturers as well as one SME ensures the consideration of relevant application scenarios, technological specifications and use of the full exploitation potential of the results.'

Introduzione (Teaser)

In a continuous quest to reduce fuel consumption and corresponding carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, lightweight carbon fibre-reinforced polymers (CFRPs) are replacing metal in aircraft components. The crucial issue is to assess the performance of adhesive bonds in load-critical and large composite structures.

Descrizione progetto (Article)

The EU-funded project http://www.encomb.eu/ (ENCOMB) (Extended non-destructive testing of composite bonds) was launched to address the lack of standardised quality assurance procedures. In particular, non-destructive testing (NDT) technology capable of reliably assessing both composite structures' surfaces and adhesive bonds leads to difficulties in certification.

The strength of an adhesive bond depends among other things on the physicochemical properties of the adhered surfaces, adhesive and the joint. The physicochemical properties are affected by a variety of factors, e.g. the degree of contamination, curing parameters, ageing or the activation after surface pre-treatment.

Therefore, one of the ENCOMB project objectives was the adaptation of methods for characterisation of adhered surfaces before application of the adhesive. The second challenging goal was the development of techniques for evaluating the bonded components. Scientists defined this newly developed quality assurance technology as extended NDT (ENDT).

Firstly, the most representative aeronautic application scenarios were identified. Suitable specimens were developed and characterised using ENDT methods. The results were compared with those of a variety of conventional analytical methods and mechanical testing to evaluate their suitability for the specific measurement tasks.

Among others, researchers applied optical methods like laser scanning vibrometry, active thermography and a wetting test to characterise the state of adhered surfaces. Sensor-based techniques such as embedded optical fibre sensors or electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were also tested as well as laser-excited and non-linear ultrasonic techniques.

In total, 31 ENDT technologies were tested for the assessment of adhered surfaces and the evaluation of adhesive bonds. In particular, for each of the aeronautic application scenarios, several techniques were applied to detect different contamination levels and passed the validation process. Knowledge gained regarding the effects of bond degradation will guide necessary design improvements.

The implementation of reliable assessment technology will lead to an increased use of CFRP components for highly integrated structures. The expected weight savings for the fuselage airframe will be up to 15 %. That will have further effects on the engine size and weight. Overall weight savings will result in significant reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions per passenger-kilometre.