Experimental analysis of repaired CFRP by innovative hot bonding technology

Composite materials are very attracting in both aerospace and automotive applications because of their exceptional strength, stiffness-to-density ratio, and superior physical properties. However, these materials are susceptible to damage, necessitating effective repair techniques to maintain their structural integrity and extend their operational life. Due to the high production costs for every single component in carbo-resin, further repair techniques have been developed to repair damaged components of a complex structure on site without having to disassemble any element. In this scenario, the scope of this research paper is to implement an innovative repair procedure to be carried out on-site. The hot bonding process was used for the scope, and two different technologies involving both the prepreg and the dry patches impregned on site (infused) were proposed. Firstly, the composite panels were manufactured, and then they were analysed through non destroying evaluation techniques. The mechanical behaviour of the samples (under both the pristine and the repaired conditions) was evaluated through open hole tensile and compression tests aiming to assess their properties under maximum stress conditions. Impact tests at penetration and at indentation were conducted to study the performances under dynamic loading. Despite an increase of voids percentage was proved for the dry patches impregned panels (+ 33