Computed Laminography of CFRP Using an X-Ray Cone-Beam and Robotic Sample Manipulator Systems

Carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRPs) are of interest to the aerospace sector for meeting future CO
₂
emission targets due to their weight reduction potential. However, the detection of structural and matrix defects is crucial for determining the performance and suitability of CFRPs in current and future generations of aircraft. Computed laminography (CL), a well-established nondestructive testing method, is well suited to the scanning of CFRP components with large aspect ratios, for which the conventional computed tomography (CT) is less suitable. Utilizing an existing Nikon Metrology custom build X-ray CT scanner, two lift-in lift-out robotic sample manipulator systems are used to extend the capability of the system and allow the exploration of atypical scanning geometries. Implementing raster and limited angle trajectories, reconstructions using the ASTRA Tomography Toolbox and the Simultaneous Iterative Reconstruction Technique algorithm are able to show structural defects in CFRPs, despite the reduced information inherent with CL systems. This paper reports on the system design and initial experiments that demonstrate benefits and drawbacks of different design options and scanning trajectory choices.