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Reducing Weight

Evaluating the Physical Properties of CFRPs Using SPMs Continuous Fiber-Reinforced Thermoplastic CFRP Laminated Board (CFRTP Laminated Board)

Strengthening Resin CF
material

MPR Image VR Image

Surface Shape Image Phase Image Surface Potential Image

In addition to 3D observations of a surface shape, an SPM can be used to evaluate the physical properties of a sample.
In a phase image, the contrast differs between the CFs and the other parts (resin and strengthening material). This indicates that the viscoelasticity
characteristics differ between the CFs and the other parts. In a surface potential image, differences in electrical characteristics are observed as differences in
surface potential.
From joint research with the Structures and Advanced Composite Research Unit, Aeronautical Technology Directorate, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)

Evaluating Formability by Observing the Interior of

Composite Materials
- Non-Destructive Observation of Fiber Orientation in CFRTP Materials - VR Image VR Image (Defect Analysis)

Due to the need for weight reduction to improve the fuel efficiency of hybrid vehicles, fuel efficient vehicle models, and other environmentally-friendly
vehicles, engineers are designing aluminum die cast parts with thinner structures and switching from metals or other materials to composite materials.
Consequently, of the composite materials currently available, demand is growing significantly especially for thermoset carbon fiber reinforced plastics
(CFRP), which are expected to help achieve energy-savings through higher strength and lower weight. In contrast, use of carbon fiber reinforced
thermoplastics (CFRTP), which offer superior workability and producibility, is anticipated for hybrid vehicles and fuel efficient models. When using
composite materials, it is important to analyze the internal voids and the fiber orientation, which can affect the specific strength of products. This In addition to detecting any voids present between layers in the
example uses a microfocus X-ray CT system, which enables non-destructive observation inside materials. CFRTP, the system can also display color that depends on the
orientation angle of the internal filler. Formability can be evaluated
Non-Destructive Internal Observation and Analysis Using Microfocus X-ray CT System based on detailed information about the internal structure of
composite materials.
Example of Imaging Aluminum Die Castings with Thin Structures Sample: Provided by Ehime University

VR Image (Fiber Orientation Analysis)

· Both high output and high image contrast can be achieved using a single system.
· High resolution observation is possible for composite materials as well as for metal samples.

MPR Image VR Image (Defect Analysis) inspeXio SMX-225CT HR Plus

Improvements made to the Shimadzu-made microfocus X-ray generator have significantly increased X-ray output levels. Sensitivity characteristics of the state-of-the-art
high resolution flat panel detector enables both unprecedented high output and high image contrast levels.

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