Processing and characterization of cathodic dip coated metal/composite-laminates

The current trend shows an increasing demand for novel technologies, that facilitate a functional integration of fiber reinforced polymers (FRP) in metal based structures, especially in automotive industry. To comply with the requirements of large-scale production the use of fiber reinforced thermoplastics in form of hybrid metal/composite-laminates seems advantageous. By targeted exploitation of their high lightweight potential, combined with suitable capabilities for mass production and good damping properties, cost-effective and weight-optimized parts with high stiffness and load capacity can be provided for future applications.As there is little known about the processing and the mechanical properties of thermoplastic based FRP/metal-laminates, the study focuses on the development of novel hybrid laminates with low residual stresses, made of metallic steel sheets and continuous glass or carbon fiber reinforced polyamide 6. In this context, the influence of several pre-operations like sand blasting, cleaning or primer application on the interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) was examined in addition to their resistance to cathodic dip paint treatment.