Cailin Rugema

Effects of Enhanced functionalized CFRPs on the Environmental Effects and Efficiency of Aerospace

Started July 12, 2024

Abstract or project description

Composites like CFRP are some of the most advanced materials being used in the aerospace industry due to their compatible properties, such as being highly strong, lightweight and stiff, among other physical properties, and as much as they have been frequently used recently, they lack certain features like electrical conductivity which can make it hard for different processes like drilling and trimming which is necessary for certain parts; This being because delamination and HAZ can occur due to this, with delamination being the most likely to occur due to layers separating under additive processes. The use and revolution of carbon fibre in aerospace came in the early 1960s when this material was used in the assembly of a Rolls Royce jet engine fan; ever since then, the demand for the material commercially has grown significantly. It is often either made monolithic or with a sandwich structure, which is what makes it a CFRP composite when reinforced with a polymer matrix. Strong connections between matrix and carbon fibres at the CFRP interface are required for effective shear transmission under load. When utilised in the fabrication of primary aircraft structures, carbon fibre provides improved strength, whereas traditionally, aluminium would be used. Another factor with CFRP is its lightweight nature, which makes it 40% lighter than Aluminium, thereby increasing the fuel efficiency of an aircraft depending on its coverage. The aerodynamic performance can also be improved with the use of this composite since it can reduce drag due to improved material design, stiffness and surface smoothness, which is why it is used in wing structures as well. To solve such an issue, research is being done using a nanomaterial known as carbon nanotubes; these small particle-sized tubes have stiff and strong properties. Multi-walled CNTs specifically are a preferred option to be used with CFRP composites due to their high mechanical properties and favourable cost. In recent research, MWCNTs have been used to reinforce polymers as another composite matrix. Damage prevention mechanisms (i.e., fracture, debonding, shrinkage, etc.) and the damage factors were also significantly improved with the pre-stretched glass fabrics compared to non-stretched fabrics. This process of applying the nanomaterial MWCNTs to composite materials (CFRP) to create ‘bridges’ at the nanoscale is known as nano hybridization. These bridges enhance the interaction between different components of the composite, which has proved to enhance mechanical, thermal and electrical properties. By bridging gaps at the nanoscale, nano hybridization can improve the distribution of stress, enhance load transfer between components, and increase fracture resistance. To prevent the agglomeration of CNTs, the implementation of Chemical functionalization is being used, whereby the surface of the nanotubes is chemically modified by attaching specific molecules or groups to it; this can improve the interfacial interaction between the nanotubes and polymer matrix via direct chemical bonding. Having explored the significant improvements in the mechanical and thermal properties of CFRP through the functionalization of MWCNTs and how it is affected. It is crucial to understand how these enhancements translate into practical benefits in aerospace applications. One of the most notable advantages is the potential for significant weight reduction, which directly impacts the overall fuel efficiency and performance of aircraft. By reducing the structural weight of components without sacrificing strength or durability, these advanced materials can play a pivotal role in optimising fuel consumption and enhancing the operational efficiency of aerospace designs. As we consider these enhancements in the properties of functionalized CFRP, it is important to recognize their implications for sustainability in the aerospace industry. By reducing the weight of aircraft components, such innovations not only enhance performance but also contribute to lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions. This aligns with the industry's broader goals of minimising environmental impact while meeting the increasing demand for efficient air travel. This research illustrates the advantages of adopting composite-based materials in aircraft manufacture from an economic and environmental standpoint by examining the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner case, which mainly uses CFRP. With a fuel savings of 20–25% and a significantly smaller carbon footprint than older models like the Airbus A340-600, the 787-9 proves to be a more financially viable option for airlines in the long run. Its lower fuel consumption, fewer repairs, and longer operational lifespan all contribute to a likely higher return on investment (ROI), underscoring the crucial role that CFRP plays in influencing aviation's future. According to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the aviation sector must achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Materials such as functionalized CFRP are crucial to satisfying consumer demand for more environmentally friendly and effective aircraft. This study shows that investing in superior composite materials will probably lead to advancements in sustainable aircraft in the future, as well as advances in material science and aerospace engineering.