Processing parameter optimization and experimental investigation on mechanical properties for RTM composite T-joint

The paper seeks to address an integrated technique for the processing parameter optimization，manufacturing and mechanical property-based experiments for the composite T-joint prepared by the resin transfer moulding (RTM) process. The numerical simulation for resin flow of RTM process was conducted to obtain the optimized injection modes of resin into mould and processing parameters. From the optimized results of RTM processing parameter，the composite T-joints were processed by using RTM technique for the tension and compression tests. The mechanical properties were determined and the failure mechanism was discussed from the experimental observation. The results show that the debonding and delamination occur along the interface of a triangular region of the T-joint subjected to tension loading，which are governed largely by the static tension properties of the resin. The bending delamination and fracture appear at the central cross-section of bottom plate of the T-joint subjected to compression loading，which are dependent on more of the ability of the fabric to support the fibre against tension. And the failure strength of compression is higher than that of tension.