Date Approved
6-28-2024
Embargo Period
6-28-2026
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Department
Mechanical Engineering
College
Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering
Sponsor
Army Research Laboratory, NSF, NJEDA
Advisor
Behrad Koohbor, Ph.D.
Committee Member 1
Francis M. Haas, Ph.D.
Committee Member 2
Joseph F. Stanzione III, Ph.D.
Committee Member 3
Nand K. Singh, Ph.D.
Committee Member 4
Isaac M. Nault, Ph.D.
Keywords
Cold Spray; Composite; Damage; Impact; Polymer; Repair
Subject(s)
Composite materials; Additive manufacturing
Disciplines
Engineering | Materials Science and Engineering | Mechanical Engineering
Abstract
Fiber-reinforced polymer composites are widely used in industries and applications such as energy, automotive, defense, and aerospace. This study investigates the application of polymer cold spray, an emerging additive manufacturing process, for coating and repair of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. The research starts with feasibility studies focused on the cold spray deposition of thermoplastic nylon-6 particles on woven glass fiber-reinforced composites (GFRP). A parametric study determines critical process parameters window, ensuring successful deposition and bonding without compromising the macroscale mechanical behavior. These findings indicate that the cold spray process does not adversely affect the fiber integrity or surface quality of the composites. Advancing from coating to repair, we explore polymer cold spray as a rapid method to repair and restore the mechanical properties of damaged GFRP composites. We assess the effect of impact energy on mechanical properties of GFRP panels and use a variety of powder materials for repair, including thermoplastics, thermosetting materials, and novel fiber-reinforced composite powders. Notably, when the damage was confined to the surface and near-surface levels, repairs by fiber-reinforced thermoset powder feedstock exhibits superior mechanical performance and improved recovery. This finding underscores the potential of fiber-reinforced thermoset powders in enhancing the durability and longevity for repairing the damaged composite materials.
Recommended Citation
Anni, Ibnaj Anamika, "REPAIR AND SURFACE FUNCTIONALIZATION OF FIBER REINFORCED POLYMER COMPOSITES BY COLD SPRAY" (2024). Theses and Dissertations. 3261.
https://rdw.rowan.edu/etd/3261
