Water detection and quantification in polymers and in CFRP using a non-destructive microwave technique

A basic aspect of a component's quality is the water content in the material. The presence of water in polymer materials like polyamide or epoxy or in composite materials like carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) can be an issue in many applications (e.g. adhesive bonding, extrusion processes, CFRP repairing processes). Only a fast and accurate water measurement technique suitable for on-line or laboratory application ensures a high product quality in combination with low expenditure. In this communication, it is reported how a non-destructive and portable device based on a microwave resonator technique accurately detects and quantifies water in the abovementioned polymers.