The impact of various curing methods on the curing process of polymer-fiber composites analyzed using analytical approach

Ti/Gf/Cf represents a novel form of hybrid fiber metal laminates (HFMLs) that successfully blend the benefits of titanium alloy, glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), and carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). These materials have garnered attention in the field of engineering due to their exceptional levels of stiffness, strength, and shear resistance. The quality of HFMLs during the curing process was significantly impacted by the chosen curing method. Moreover, the use of multiple types of fibers complicated the optimization of curing parameters in HFMLs. A comprehensive study was conducted using a multi-physics field coupling finite element method to investigate the impact of various curing methods on the development of temperature distribution, curing degree, and curing stress in HFMLs during the curing process. By integrating thermal transmission equations, curing kinetics, and viscoelastic mechanical models, a detailed curing simulation model was established. Increasing the cooling rate from 1 °C to 5 °C was shown to raise the maximum curing stress by 4.7 MPa. Additionally, higher curing temperatures were found to induce internal curing stress due to variations in thermal properties. Insufficient insulation times were observed to exacerbate non-uniform temperature distribution and curing degree fields in HFMLs, potentially leading to increased internal stress. To mitigate the generation of large residual stress, it is recommended to lower the heating and cooling rates, reduce curing temperatures, and extend the insulation time appropriately during the curing process of HFMLs. The primary goal of this research was to accurately predict the evolution of curing parameters in HFMLs under different curing regimes, which were impacted by the chosen curing method. The results of the study demonstrated that rapid changes in temperature during heating and cooling stages can lead to uneven curing, resulting in the accumulation of residual stress within the laminates. • Ti/Gf/Cf HFMLs blend for exceptional stiffness and shear resistance in engineering applications. • Curing method influences HFML quality, with fibers complicating optimization of parameters. • Finite element was used to examine curing effects on temperature, degree, and stress in HFMLs. • Dramatic temperature changes during curing caused uneven residual stress in laminates. • Lowering heating and cooling rates and reducing temperature controlled residual stress in HFMLs.