Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://hdl.handle.net/1959.3/72395

Title

Variable frequency microwave (VFM) processing facilities and application in processing thermoplastic matrix composites

Author(s)

Ku, H. S.;  Siu, F.;  Siores, E.;  Ball, J. A. R.

Abstract

Microwave processing of materials is a relatively new technology advancement alternative that provides new approaches for enhancing material properties as well as economic advantages through energy savings and accelerated product development. Factors that hinder the use of microwaves in materials processing are declining, so that prospect for the development of this technology seem to be very promising. The two mechanisms of orientation polarisation and interfacial space charge polarisation, together with dc conductivity, form the basis of high frequency heating. Clearly, advantages in utilising microwave technologies for processing materials include penetration radiation, controlled electric field distribution and selective and volumetric heating. However, the most commonly used facilities for microwave processing materials are of fixed frequency, e.g. 2.45GHz. This paper presents a state-of-the-art review of microwave technologies, processing methods and industrial applications, using variable frequency microwave (VFM) facilities. This is a new alternative for microwave processing.

Publication type

Journal article

Research centre

Swinburne University of Technology. Faculty of Engineering and Industrial Sciences. Industrial Research Institute Swinburne

Source

Journal of Materials Processing Technology, Vol. 139, no. 1-3 (Aug 2003), pp. 291-295

Publication year

2003

Keyword(s)

Bulk heating;  Characterisation;  Fibre reinforced thermoplastic matrix composite materials;  Penetrating radiation;  Variable frequency microwave facilities

Publisher

Elsevier

ISSN

0924-0136

Publisher URL

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S0924-0136(03)00238-3

Copyright

Copyright © 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.

Peer reviewed