Investigation of stimulating the autoclave curing process of resin matrix/fiber reinforced composite material. I: Process model

A mathematical model is made which describes the curing process of composites constructed from continuous fiber-reinforced, thermosetting resin matrix prepreg materials, and the consolidation of the composite is developed. The model provides various temperature distribution, cure reaction process in the resin, resin flow and fibers stress inside the composite, void variation and residual stress distribution. It can be used to illustrate the mechanism of curing process and optimize the cure cycle of composite material in order to ensure the quality of a product.