Laser-Induced Carbonization in Aramid Composites for Embedded Conductive Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aramid fiber reinforced resin matrix composite materials used in aerospace applications face challenges with internal space utilization due to the need for extensive wiring, which occupies valuable space and complicates design.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of an infrared picosecond laser to create a carbonization layer within the aramid fiber resin matrix composite, allowing for conductive pathways without damaging the surface resin, thereby reducing the need for traditional wiring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional wiring methods are used to distribute circuits on spacecraft, then electrical connectivity is achieved, but internal space is occupied and design flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the structural aramid fiber reinforcement with the electrical conduction function by carbonizing the fibers through laser irradiation. This creates a dual-purpose component where the same structural element provides both mechanical strength and electrical connectivity, eliminating the need for separate wiring systems and freeing up internal spacecraft space.
Solution Approach 2:
The aramid fibers are transformed into multi-functional elements that simultaneously provide structural reinforcement and electrical conduction. The carbonized fibers serve multiple functions: structural support, electrical pathway, and potential electromagnetic interference shielding, replacing what would traditionally require separate dedicated components.
2Productivity
If laser power is increased to carbonize aramid fiber, then carbonization efficiency improves, but surface resin may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs picosecond-pulsed laser irradiation instead of continuous wave laser. This periodic action allows the laser energy to be delivered in short, intense pulses that carbonize the aramid fiber while providing cooling intervals between pulses that prevent excessive heat accumulation and damage to the surface resin.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the temporal parameters of laser delivery by using picosecond pulses with specific duty cycles and repetition rates. This parameter modification enables selective heating of the aramid fiber (which has different thermal properties than the resin) while controlling the overall thermal exposure to protect the surface resin from degradation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables the creation of conductive pathways within the composite material, reducing internal space occupation, enhancing design flexibility, and offering potential electromagnetic wave stealth capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
the aramid fiber resin matrix composite material is scanned by infrared picosecond laser to realize high temperature carbonization of the aramid fiber layer below the surface resin
Implementation Method 2
so that the aramid fiber layer under the surface resin can be carbonized under the condition of high temperature and oxygen
Data Source
AI summary
A preparation method for an internal laser-induced carbonization layer of aramid fiber resin matrix composite material is provided. The surface of sample of aramid fiber resin matrix composite material is wiped with anhydrous ethanol; the sample of aramid fiber resin matrix composite material was placed on the laser sample platform, and the defocusing amount between the laser focus and the upper surface of the sample was negative. Infrared picosecond laser was used to scan the sample of aramid fiber resin matrix composite material for several times. Since the laser absorption rate of the surface epoxy resin was very low, most of the laser energy passed through the epoxy resin layer and directly acted on the internal aramid fiber. The laser carbonized the internal aramid fiber without damaging the surface resin, and formed a carbonized line along the laser scanning path to realize the conductivity of aramid fiber resin matrix composite.