Thermal characterization and comparison of different advanced composites for tooling applications

Abstract: The aim of this study if to give a comparison between different kind of high composite laminates (thin ply and conventional thickness plates) for tooling applications. The study mainly deals with the thermal behaviour of these materials after certain amount of time of exposure, and how this can affect the mechanical properties. This approach was chosen since thermal properties are of the biggest challenges when creating reliable parts to make tools.The study also serves as a deeper insight into the thin-ply laminates, how they work and give further characterization, since these are still novel technologies which have not reach the highest potential.The project was carried out within the Polymer and Composite division at Luleå University of Technology and is part of ongoing work of the Eureka platform (TOOLS) in collaboration with Airbus Spain as well as other institutes such as Swerea SICOMP Ab, Corebon Ab, Loiretech Mauves, Rise Acreo Ab and Lund University.