Dimensional changes in CFRP/PMI foam core sandwich structures

A sandwich structure was observed from the beginning of life-starting at the vacuum assisted manufacturing process up to several environmental in service conditions. Strain variations due to curing process at the manufacturing, well as thermal fluctuations and humidity environments in service were detected and reviewed by their influence on the overall dimensional stability. The CFRP/PMI foam core sandwich structure was checked for an application as a primary structure in commercial aviation with its specific environmental requirements.