Composite Material Repair Using Solvation for Fiber Continuity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for repairing composite materials like fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) using physical removal methods disrupt the continuity of the fiber skeleton, leading to reduced physical properties post-repair.
Innovation Solution
A solvation process is employed to depolymerize the matrix resin while preserving the filler fiber skeleton, followed by re-impregnating the matrix resin to maintain structural integrity and continuity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If physical removal methods (laser, grinder) are used to remove damaged portions, then the damaged area can be cleared for repair, but the continuity of the fiber skeleton is broken and physical properties deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical removal methods (grinding, laser) with a chemical solvation process using a depolymerization solution. This chemical approach selectively dissolves the matrix resin without mechanically disrupting the fiber skeleton, thereby maintaining fiber continuity and preserving the physical properties of the repaired composite material while still achieving effective damage removal
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the state of the matrix resin from solid to dissolved state through chemical solvation. By controlling the parameters of the depolymerization solution (composition, temperature, concentration) and treatment time, the matrix resin is selectively removed while the fiber skeleton remains intact, enabling repair without the fiber discontinuity caused by mechanical methods
2Productivity
If conventional physical removal methods are used, then repair process can be completed, but fiber skeleton continuity cannot be secured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical removal methods (grinding, laser) with a chemical solvation process using a depolymerization solution. This chemical approach selectively dissolves the matrix resin without mechanically disrupting the fiber skeleton, thereby maintaining fiber continuity and preserving the physical properties of the repaired composite material while still achieving effective damage removal
Solution Approach 2:
The depolymerization solution acts as an intermediary substance that selectively interacts with the matrix resin. The solution contains chemicals that break down the resin polymer chains, allowing the resin to be removed while leaving the fiber skeleton intact. This intermediary chemical process achieves what mechanical methods cannot - removal of matrix material without fiber damage
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 method ensures the continuity of the fiber skeleton is maintained, allowing for repairs that achieve strength comparable to the original material, minimizing damage to internal fibers and surrounding structures.
Implementation Method 1
a solvation process, in which only a matrix material, that is, a thermosetting resin of a broken or damaged portion in a composite material such as fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) is removed by solvation with a solution
Implementation Method 2
providing a depolymerization solution capable of depolymerizing the matrix resin to a portion to be repaired of the composite material
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
Disclosed are a method and an apparatus for repairing composite materials using a solvation process, in which, in the repair of composite materials comprising a matrix resin and a filler fiber, a solution capable of depolymerizing the matrix resin is provided to a portion to be repaired of the composite material to depolymerize the matrix resin. By removing the matrix resin constituting the composite material by solvating it with a solvent while leaving the internal filler fibers, it is possible to secure continuity of the fiber skeleton of the composite material even after the repair, perform very easy repair, and minimize damage to the fiber skeleton.