Compaction behaviour of magnesium alloy-based fibre metal laminates at varying forming parameters

This research presents a methodology for the compaction characterization of thermoplastic prepregs with a twill weaving style under a range of parameters typical of the thermoforming process applied to magnesium alloy-based fibre metal laminates (FMLs). The compaction tests were conducted making use of a plate-to-plate mode testing setup. The through-thickness and transverse width of the prepregs were evaluated on the FML specimen cross-section at varying compaction force and temperature. Significant deformations were observed at the lowest compaction force above the prepreg polymer melting point, whereas a further increase in the compaction force led to gradually smaller through-thickness and in-plane deformations. Additionally, a higher decrease in thickness and increase in width of the prepregs were detected at higher temperatures.