LLNL announced that 3D printing can be involved in aviation grade carbon fiber composites

Recently, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) announced the successful development of 3D-printed aerospace grade carbon fiber composites , laying the foundation for lightweight, high-strength materials that are better controlled and easier to optimize in the aerospace industry. The foundation.

On February 28th, the research results were published in NatureScientificReports, highlighting the significant advances in the development of carbon fiber micro-extrusion 3D printing technology. Carbon fiber composite inks are extruded from a custom direct ink writing (DIW) 3D printer that ultimately forms part of the rocket nozzle.

Jim Lewicki, lead researcher at LLNL Labs and lead author of the paper, explains that carbon fiber composites are usually made in two ways: by physically wrapping the fibers around the mandrel, or by weaving the fibers into a wicker basket, the finished product is limited to flat or cylindrical. shape. Manufacturers tend to overuse materials due to performance issues, which can make parts heavier, more expensive, and more unnecessary and wasteful. The researchers printed several complex 3D structures by improving the printing process of direct ink writing 3D printers. Lewicki and his team also developed and acquired a new chemical that cures materials in seconds rather than hours and uses the laboratory's high-performance computing capabilities to develop accurate models of carbon fiber filament flow.

The ability to print 3D provides new freedom for carbon fiber, and researchers say they can control the microstructure of the part. The material is also conductive, allowing the heat transfer channels to be set within the structure. The researchers revealed that the final material can be used to make high-performance aircraft wings, one-side insulated, satellite components that do not need to be rotated in space, and wearables that can absorb heat from the body. The researchers will then begin process optimization to find the best place to place carbon fiber to maximize performance. Researchers have also discussed with commercial, aerospace and defense partners to advance the future of the technology.