Multifunctional films for thermoplastic composite joints: Ultrasonic welding and damage detection under tension loading

This paper investigates the use of multi-walled carbon nanotube/polypropylene (MWCNT/PP) films to enable ultrasonic welding and damage detection glass fiber/polypropylene (GF/PP) composite joints in a single lap configuration. Three MWCNT concentrations above electrical percolation (15–25 wt%) were chosen weld GF/PP adherends. The effect content on process was evaluated by comparing quality through shear strength (LSS) tests fractography analysis. Films containing 15 20 wt% had no significant process, while 25 reduced LSS up 39% compared pure PP due their brittleness. Welded with MWCNT/PP showed potential for real-time resistance changes at interface. Thus, multifunctional proposed this study represent novel promising approach thermoplastic joints, but future work should focus improving strength.