Additive Manufacturing of Liquid Crystal Polymers
Interlayer features: formation and impact on interlaminar shear strength
C.C.M.C.A.G.P. Houriet (TU Delft - Aerospace Engineering)
C.D. Rans – Mentor (TU Delft - Structural Integrity & Composites)
Clemens Dransfeld – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Aerospace Manufacturing Technologies)
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Abstract
Recent findings have highlighted the potential of a 3D-printable high-strength Liquid Crystal Polymer, whose anisotropy can be fostered for topology optimization intents. The mesostructure of a 3D-printed liquid crystal polymer is studied: the observation of interlayer features under the form of regular notches or spiraling patterns swirls is reported on optical microscopy of cross-sections. A formation mechanism is proposed: interlayer features may be formed as a result of an offset in placement of material. Another question is raised by the observation of these crenelated shapes: by providing mechanical interlocking between layers, they are expected to enhance interlaminar shear strength of a part. Short-beam shear tests indicate that when interlayer features are tall with respect to the layer height, and oriented perpendicular to the shear loading direction, the interlaminar shear strength of the 3D-printed part is enhanced by up to 112%. Microscopic evidence further indicates the crack-arrest ability of these features.