Thermo-mechanical creep analysis and life assessment of reheat reaction turbine blades using epoxy/carbon fiber reinforced amine-functionalized graphene

Reheat Reaction Turbine Blade experience tough thermo-mechanical loads due to presence of high centrifugal forces and high temperatures in steam. This leads to creep and deterioration of blade structures. In this research work, the hybrid composite made up of epoxy matrix and reinforced with carbon fibers and Amine Functionalized Graphene (AFG) is used for turbine blade applications. Presence of graphene makes the composites more thermally stable with enhanced interface and creep resistance properties. Coupled thermo-mechanical FEA model is carried out to analyze stress, temperature and creep behavior of the composite. Estimation of creep life of composite is done by using the modified Larson-Miller Parameter (LMP) method applicable to polymer matrix composites at elevated temperatures. It is found that the presence of graphene enhances load transfer efficiency and lowers von Mises stresses and creep strain in hybrid composites.