X-Ray computed tomography of composites

Fibre reinforced polymer composites (FRPC) are widely used in engineering applications due to their high specific strength and high specific modulus. However, due to the high complexity of the structures and the damage mechanisms, composite materials are increasingly complex. Traditional NDT techniques such as ultrasound C-scan, Shearography and thermography and destructive techniques such as optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy provide limited information. In order to have a thorough understanding of the structure and of the damage, a method of investigation in 3D would be highly beneficial. X-ray computed tomography (CT) is such a technique where 3D information can be acquired. The capabilities of CT are showcased by means of three case studies focused on composite manufacturing, fatigue damage and impact damage of composites.