Student paper

Rapid production of fiber-reinforced components – thanks to variable catalysis

Bachelor’s thesis or Master’s thesis.

The goal of your work is to determine the optimal catalyst content for a variable catalysis that enables homogeneous and rapid curing of a component.
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IKV

Thanks to their unique ability to combine high mechanical properties with low weight, fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) have become indispensable, especially in the transport sector. Resin transfer molding (RTM) is a frequently used process for manufacturing such components. In this process, a semi-finished fiber product is impregnated with a resin system consisting of resin, hardener and catalyst in a closed tool cavity.

The work is related to this research project:

The “VarMischung” research project is investigating the variable catalysis of FRP components. The amount of catalyst should be varied during injection to achieve faster and more homogeneous curing. The cycle time can be reduced and production efficiency increased for all RTM processes and material systems.

Objective:

The aim of your work is to determine the optimum catalyst content for variable catalysis, which enables homogeneous and rapid curing of a component.

Your task:

Familiarization with the topic of the RTM process Familiarization with the topic of the RTM process
Carrying out filling studies on a test tool in the technical center Carrying out filling studies on a test tool in the technical center
Interpretation of the collected data and determination of the optimum process parameters Interpretation of the collected data and determination of the optimum process parameters
Characterization of the manufactured components

Your profile

  • Technical or scientific studies at RWTH or FH (e.g. mechanical engineering, materials science, chemistry, …)
  • Motivated, careful and independent way of working
  • Affinity for technology, creativity and willingness to learn
  • Previous experience in working with fiber-reinforced plastics is an advantage, but not required