The manufacturing method of CFRP by using Electrodeposition

Abstract

Application of CFRP is spreading from aircrafts to automobiles. The energy reduction in the manufacturing process of CFRP is strongly requested with the increase of CFRP production volume. So, the Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VaRTM) is becoming the mainstream from Autoclave Molding as the manufacturing method of CFRP. However, even in VaRTM, the interfacial strength between carbon fiber and resin must be improved. It is difficult to control the resin flow to fill all the space in CFRP, therefore, the void is remained slightly on the interfacial surface. Recently, the design of CFRP with optimal arrangement of carbon fiber distribution is progressing including curved line as well as straight. It is possible to weave carbon fiber in any shape, however, using VaRTM, the flow of the resin is deteriorated and CFRP becomes inhomogeneous. In this study, the manufacturing method of CFRP by using electrodeposition was developed. CFRP was manufactured with immersing the woven carbon sheet in the epoxy electrodeposition solution. Electrodeposition conditions were investigated and the tension test was conducted on the CFRP.