- Start: 01/08/2014
- End: 31/12/2017
ESTENEA will develop laser-based surface modification process es for aerospace CFRP materials. The goal is to gain control on the surface interaction properties to improve painting and gluing operations. Different techniques are studied:
1. Photochemical processing, using UV laser radiation for local formation of active radicals and polar bonds in the resin surface. In this way, surface tension and reactivity is fine tuned and a better interface is gained with coatings or adhesives.
2. Physical-chemical modifications using UV laser and surface engineering procedures. Laser treatment is used to produce directional periodic patterns of texture and surface states, which allow to tailor the surface energy, roughness and mechanical anchoring effects on the surface according to engineered designs.
3.Topographical modification of the CFRP surface using physical processing with far infrared laser sources.
Besides the effectivity of these techniques to affect wettability (paint and adhesion), the proces will contribute to the quality, environmental friendliness and reliability of the whole production and assembly chain.
AIMEN is in charge of the development of all laser processes in this project, and the investigation of their impact on surface properties, to optimize the adhesive bonding and painting of aeronautic grade composite materials.
- Sectors: Aeronautical
- R&D&i: Laser assisted processing, Thermoplastic composites
- Leader: Airbus Operations, S.L.
- Partners: AIMEN Centro Tecnológico, TECNATOM S.A., ACITURRI ENGINEERING SL, Airbus Defence & Space, EINA, TEAMS
- Acronym: ESTENEA
- Ambit: National
FEDER