Multifunctional coatings produced on the surface of fiber-reinforced composites with polymer matrix for implementation in mechanical engineering and civil engineering

Project title: Multifunctional coatings produced on the surface of fiber-reinforced composites with polymer matrix for implementation in mechanical engineering and civil engineering

Agreement number: LIDER13/0135/2022

Edition of the competition: XIII

Project implementation period: 01.06.2023 - 01.06.2026

Project value: 1 499 830,00 PLN

Funds granted for Lublin University of Technology: 1 499 830,00 PLN

Principal Investigator: dr inż. Przemysław Golewski

Abstract: Polymer matrix composites (PMCs) are increasingly replacing metals and alloys for applications in machine parts, vehicles and civil engineering. Due to their favourable weight/strength ratio, they reduce fuel consumption and thus CO2 emissions. Their disadvantages include limited operating temperature, flame degradation, low impact and erosion resistance. Therefore, in order to extend the scope of their operation, it is necessary to use multifunctional coatings. In the implemented project, they will be applied to products manufactured on the basis of prepregs, autoclave curing technique and vacuum infusion, which are most often used in the manufacture of responsible structures. The common feature of the multifunctional coatings analyzed in the project will be the creation of an interlayer during the curing stage of the polymeric matrix. The interlayer will provide a substrate for a system of thermal barriers (TBC) produced by the air plasma spray (APS) method, resistant to both high temperatures and mechanical loads, and metallic coatings made by the "cold spray" method, resistant to impact and erosion. The interlayer, made of metal powders and oxides, will be designed in such a way that, in addition to allowing further layer build-up, it will not weaken the PMC substrate. This will be achieved among others through the use of a thermoplastic nonwoven fabric and expandable microspheres. The goal of the project will be to develop interlayer technology and produce multifunctional coatings by methods such as APS and "cold spray" without exposing the PMC substrate to thermal damage and erosion. In order to facilitate the application of the interlayer on parts with complex shapes, a new product in the form of a pre-impregnated interlayer and a technological line for its production will also be developed. The developed technology will then be applied to composite demonstrators: fire drone, façade panels and a welding robot arm.