The internal structure and conformation of prepreg with respect to reliable automated processing

Automated processing of composite tape relies on high quality material. High quality can be defined as tight dimensional tolerances and low variability of the material properties. Here, we study the variability of voidage, resin content and surface roughness of uncured prepreg tapes and discuss the implications for automated processing. A characteristic voidage distribution in the uncured tapes is observed that can be linked to initial manufacture. Resin content significantly varies spatially and may affect automated layup detrimentally. Finally, it is shown that both prepregs have a characteristic surface roughness, which may be linked to tack and the amount of entrapped air during layup.