Measurement of voids in composites by X-ray Computed Tomography

Manufacturing defects often lead to significant degradation of structural behavior in composite parts. Recent advances in X-ray Computed Micro-Tomography were shown to improve non-destructive assessment of defects in composites. Current methods of porosity/void detection by X-ray Computed Tomography use qualitative techniques prone to large errors in describing the void geometry and total volume of voids. This work proposes a new method of quantifying porosity/void dimensions in composites and discusses methods to minimize errors in void detection. Challenges in using X-ray Computed Micro-Tomography for accurate void detection and measurement are considered. The methodology is validated on a composite specimen with drilled micro-holes; and applied to a unidirectional Carbon/Epoxy tape composite, and Carbon/Epoxy fabric specimens with porosity defects.