X-ray microtomography applications for quantitative and qualitative analysis of porosity in woven glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic

Abstract A three dimensional representation of woven glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite has been obtained by means of X-ray microtomography. Various methods of image segmentation were applied to classify microtomography results. Segmented images were used to perform complete qualitative and quantitative analysis of porosity present in material. Several image processing tools were developed to precisely define porosity distribution on the global, layer and single yarn scale. A 3D mesh representing fiber, resin and porosity geometry has been obtained to better visualize localization of various forms of porosity and serve as a base for future mechanical simulations. A problem with yarn impregnation has been identified in one principal direction of material and has been precisely described regarding to orientation of yarns and location in thickness of material along with topographic description of resin deficiency in single yarn cross-section. Additional verification was provided by observation of the samples by Scanning Electron Microscopy.