Experimental studies of thin-ply laminated composites

A new processing method was developed for spreading fiber tows to make thin-ply laminated composites. The present method with a constant airflow through sagged fiber filaments can efficiently spread the thick tows without damaging any fibers. This method is robust and easy compared with other available thin-ply methods. The thin plies of thickness less than one-third of the conventional plies can easily be made with the tow-spreading technology....