Composites Laboratories
The Composites Laboratories consist of well-equipped, model production areas dedicated to the manufacture of polymer composite material components.
Continuous fibre composites can be produced by the following methods:
- Filament winding
- Hand lay-up, autoclave cure
- Hot pressing
Recent research projects have investigated the following areas:
A comprehensive suite of equipment is available to evaluate the properties of composite materials during manufacture and after cure:
Real-time process monitoring using FTIR spectrometers
In-situ residual strain monitoring using optical fibre sensors, mechanical testing and microscopy facilities.
Enquiries from industry or academia relating to these research themes or to the manufacture of composites in general are welcome.
Mr Mark Carpenter
T: +44 (0)1793 785146
E: m.d.carpenter@cranfield.ac.uk
