Analysis of Changes in the Surface Quality of a UD Prepregs Composite due to Mechanical Loading

Optimizing the mechanical properties of composites is very important for light low energy constructions. Unidirectional prepreg (UD prepreg) is an intermediate product synthesizing a unidirectional layer of carbon fibres with a matrix. This can be used in the production of continuous fibres of reinforced composites. The individual layers can be stacked on top of each other to precisely orientate the layers and attain the maximum properties in a given direction. The resulting composite is ultra thin with the highest possible fraction of fibres. Prepreg composites are very high quality and have very good mechanical properties. They can be applied in sectors where the requirements for mechanical resistance are very high. This paper presents an experimental and numerical analysis of the surface of a composite and the changes that may occur to it under the influence of loading. The Ball Drop Test (ASTM D6024-07 / DIN 52306) was used as a stress test. Test samples scanned by image analysis showed that the surface properties of the UD prepreg were not disrupted, while scanning with AXIO IMAGER M2 showed apparent surface disruptions. From the numerical simulations it was determined that a directional orientation of the fibres of +45°/0°/-45° significantly affects their elastic properties.