Carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) are increasingly valued for their light weight, high strength, and corrosion resistance, especially in the aerospace and automotive industries. However, machining these materials particularly drilling is challenging due to their anisotropic and heterogeneous structure, requiring precise process control to ensure dependable assemblies. This machining can induce mechanical and thermal defects and also accelerates tool wear because of the abrasive nature of the fibers. Although adding additives to composites holds promise for performance enhancement, their effects on the machining process remain insufficiently explored.
This study examines the modification of the epoxy matrix in CFRP composites by adding microparticle additives, specifically graphene and wax, to evaluate their effect on drill bit temperature during drilling. Nine sample types, including eight formulations with varying graphene (0%, 0.25%, 2%) and wax (0%, 1%, 2%) contents, were tested under optimal cutting conditions using a diamond-coated drill bit. The research assesses how these additives influence key machining factors such as surface finish and cutting forces.
The findings reveal that incorporating graphene and wax into CFRP composites significantly lowers the cutting temperature, drilling force, and surface roughness of the holes, thereby enhancing machining efficiency. In addition, these additives reduce delamination, improving the internal cohesion and reliability of the resulting assemblies.
| Date | 9 Jan 2026 |
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| Original language | French |
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| Awarding Institution | - École de technologie supérieure
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| Supervisor | Jean-François Chatelain (Supervisor) & Mohamed Slamani (Co-supervisor) |
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Kebaili, C. (Author),
Chatelain (Supervisor) & Slamani (Co-supervisor),
9 Jan 2026Student thesis: Master's thesis › Master in Engineering: Mechanical Engineering