Fracture characterization of continuous fibre-reinforced polymer matrix composite laminates by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance

In vitro results obtained from Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Imaging (NMRI) of Continuous Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) matrix composite laminates, which had been previously damaged and subsequently immersed in simulated body fluid are provided in this work. Irrefutable evidences are given in regard to the NMRI technique’s ability to detect and fully characterize two different fracture types, namely translaminar and delamination, in two distinct classes of solid composites, namely with thermosetting and thermoplastic matrices reinforced with carbon fibers. The study lays and establishes solid foundation for in vivo application of this nondestructive, noninvasive, painless, reliable, non-lethal radiation and fast technique in determining the degree of structural integrity of technologically advanced orthopaedic implants. Furthermore, the residual life estimation and the lifetime extension of human orthopaedic implants are also envisioned by means of this technique.