Finite element simulation and experimental analysis of edge glow for a generic, 16-ply carbon fiber reinforced plastic composite laminate

Modelling and understanding edge glow effects on material failure resulting from artificial lightning strike

“…Several studies have attempted to model the effects of edge glow to varying degrees [3], [41], [42]. The main focus of some of these works has been on the interaction of edge glow with fuel ignition sources, fasteners and methods to appropriately protect these systems.…”

“…In a further study, Revel et al [42] conducted more experiments on CFRP coupons with fasteners. Greegor et al [3] used 16-ply, rectangular, thermoplastic CFRP coupons and COMSOL multiphysics with results comparing predicted temperatures, inter-ply voltages and current densities with experimentally recorded light on film images. Peak currents of 1.0 kA, 2.7 kA and 6.0 kA were used in these analyses, while a maximum of 20 kA was used in experiments.…”

“…Experiments using smaller composite specimens placed on a conductive surface have reported an "edge glow" or arcing of current from the side surfaces of the test specimen. This can be caused by blackbody radiation [3], but the most frequently cited reason is the breakdown of air [4]. Edge glow refers to visible light which can be seen at the extremities of specimens when short duration, high peak currents pass through the specimen [3].…”

“…This can be caused by blackbody radiation [3], but the most frequently cited reason is the breakdown of air [4]. Edge glow refers to visible light which can be seen at the extremities of specimens when short duration, high peak currents pass through the specimen [3]. This visible light is commonly considered to be electrical break down of the gasses close to the edge of the specimen and/or hot plasma particles ejected due to the decomposition of the specimen resin material [3].…”

“…Edge glow refers to visible light which can be seen at the extremities of specimens when short duration, high peak currents pass through the specimen [3]. This visible light is commonly considered to be electrical break down of the gasses close to the edge of the specimen and/or hot plasma particles ejected due to the decomposition of the specimen resin material [3]. The exact location of any electrical discharge is likely controlled by the distribution of exposed fibres at the cut edges of the specimens.…”