Examine the mechanical properties of woven glass fiber fabric reinforced composite plate manufactured with vat‐photopolymerization

Abstract

Additive manufacturing has enhanced the production of complex parts with greater efficiency. However, inherent drawbacks such as reduced mechanical properties still pose challenges, necessitating further improvements to bridge the gap and meet industry demands. Therefore, this study investigated the use of glass fiber woven fabric with vat‐photopolymerization printing to achieve composite parts with superior mechanical properties. This approach offered an advantage in reducing the production time required for fiber‐reinforced composites by eliminating the need for curing processes or vacuum infusion. The mechanical properties of the composite panels manufactured with this method were investigated using flexural, interlaminar shear (ILSS), impact tests with different fiber orientations, and fiber volume fractions. The results of the mechanical tests showed maximum flexural strength of 295 MPa, impact strength of 174 kJ/m2, and ILSS of 20.58 MPa. In addition, optical images were taken to examine the cross‐section of the printed parts, which revealed a uniform and good wetting of the fibers. The findings suggest that glass fiber woven fabric in vat printing is a promising approach for producing composite parts with enhanced mechanical properties and reduced production rate.Highlights Additive manufacturing of glass fiber woven fabric reinforced with VPP printing. Reduced production time and microstructure by using layer‐by‐layer manufacturing. Maximum flexural strength: 295 MPa, impact strength: 174 kJ/m2, ILSS: 20.58 MPa. Consistent porosity values with the increasing number of layers. Promising for producing standard and thick composites with improved properties.