Microwave Assisted Manufacturing and Repair of Carbon Reinforced Nanocomposites

Figure 3

X-ray computed tomography images of composite panels (a) after cutting of fabricated panels, (b) after first microwave weld cycle with clamp 1, and (c) after second, improved microwave weld cycle with clamp 2. As-fabricated samples had low internal defect concentrations. The first weld cycle shows low interfacial bonding between panels as well as high porosity due to internal voids resulting from rapid thermal expansion and nonuniform pressure. Second weld cycle exhibits better interfacial bonding and repair of internal damage; however, some regions in some regions throughout the thickness still showed incomplete bonding.

(a)

(b)

(c)