Optimizing processing parameters for glass fiber reinforced polycarbonate LFT-D composites

Glass fiber (GF) reinforced polycarbonate (PC) long fiber thermoplastic (LFT) materials are compounded via LFT direct (LFT-D) process. PC GF exhibits solid mechanical properties and is a promising and novel addition to the material portfolio of the LFT-D process. The purpose of this study was to further improve mechanical properties by increasing fiber lengths. Trials are conducted at low and high fiber mass fractions as well as low and high screw speeds. Screw designs with and without mixing elements are tested. Resulting fiber lengths and tensile properties are discussed and measures taken evaluated.