Characterization and simulation of the interface between continuously and discontinuously fiber reinforced thermoplastics

Fiber-reinforced polymers are a promising class of materials that have achieved increasing market value in the automotive and lightweight construction sectors due to their high specific strength and stiffness properties [1]. In times of global warming, it is necessary to keep in mind reliable recycling processes after the respective lifetime of a component. Therefore, reinforced thermoplastics offer good processability and recyclability compared to conventional reinforced thermosets. Despite having the highest stiffness and strength within this class, continuous fiber reinforced polymers (Co-FRP) require a more complex processing procedure and offer limited design freedom. In contrast, discontinuous fiber-reinforced polymers (DiCo-FRP) avoid these limitations, with reduced stiffness and strength properties. In order to solve this conflict of objectives and to combine high specific strength and stiffness while still maintaining great freedom of design, it is possible to locally reinforce DiCo-FRP with Co-FRP tapes, which is called Co-DiCo-FRP here.