Abstract
Sandwich composites have gained significant attention in recent years due to their exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, bending stiffness-to-weight ratio, higher energy dissipation in impact, and versatility in applications. Due to the fatigue degradation and shear failure in conventional cores, developing novel sandwich structures made of alternative cores carries significant scientific importance in many engineering areas. This study explores the utilization of 3D Printed Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) thermoplastic cores in sandwich structures to improve flexural and shear strength. The research aims to develop new sandwich composites having lightweight yet robust material properties using additive manufacturing (AM) and vacuum-assisted resin infusion process. To evaluate the flexural and shear strengths, ASTM standard sample specimens are prepared where 3-point bending tests are employed to assess the flexural strength and analyze the shear strength. The results are compared with balsa and PET foam cores having the same fiber. The findings exhibit improved flexural and shear strength in 3D Printed ABS cores compared to foam-cored composites. ABS cores also exhibit excellent load bearing while the composite skins provide the necessary stiffness in reinforcement.
