Experimental characterisation for compression moulding of hybrid architecture composites using reclaimed prepreg manufacturing waste

Abstract. Composites manufacturing using prepreg general a large proportion of waste from ply cutting, which usually ends up in landfill. A novel reuse route for prepreg manufacturing waste is proposed by combining chip-SMC reprocessed from the waste material and the virgin continuous fibre prepreg to create hybrid architecture composites. Experimental studies are performed to investigate the flow behaviour of prepreg chip-SMC under typical compression moulding conditions and benchmark it against a conventional SMC. Process characterisation is also performed for hybrid architecture composites to understand the critical deformation mechanisms of chip-SMC and prepreg, and the interaction between the two materials. Compression moulding trials are performed to further study the material behaviour and process characterises under realistic manufacturing conditions.