Co-authors​ :

 Atul SHARMA (UNITED KINGDOM), Robert DR. ROBERT HUGHES , Tony PROF. ANTHONY PEYTON  

Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) composites have become indispensable in engineering applications due to their high strength-to-weight ratio. However, the mechanical performance of these composites is susceptible to manufacturing-induced defects such as misalignment and local fiber waviness. This study considers the behaviour of eddy currents within CFRP, employing a through transmission eddy current non-destructive testing technique, with the goal of better understanding the electromagnetic interactions and screening capabilities of these materials. The primary objective is to elucidate the intricate mechanism of eddy currents within CFRP and gauge the efficacy of the material in screening magnetic fields. Such insights are pivotal for advancing simulation models and optimizing sensors for enhanced performance in CFRP structures. Experimental investigations involve the development of a through transmission setup, enabling focused trials with varying orientations of carbon fibers. Starting with two layers and progressively altering the layers, we explore the influence of different coil sizes on the behaviour of eddy currents. Preliminary findings suggest that when plies are oriented unidirectionally, they successfully block the transmission of the magnetic field to the opposite side of the material. Subsequent studies will explore how the screening effect varies with different orientations of plies. Simultaneously, numerical simulations are conducted to complement experimental findings. We employ an orientation-dependent 2D conductivity tensor representation to model the fiber tow structure of each unidirectional ply. These simulations also serve as a platform to evaluate orientation inversion techniques. The combination of experimental and simulation data provides a holistic understanding of the electromagnetic interactions within CFRP. This knowledge is important for refining simulation models, optimizing sensor designs, and ultimately enhancing the structural performance of CFRP composites in diverse engineering applications. In conclusion, our research not only advances the scientific understanding of eddy current behaviour in CFRP but also lays the foundation for practical improvements in the design and assessment of CFRP structures. The insights gained have implications for industries relying on CFRP composites, ranging from aerospace to automotive engineering.