Automatic fiber tracing and waviness detection in carbon fiber composite micrographs

Fiber waviness can occur during manufacturing of carbon fiber composite parts, causing a knockdown in its mechanical performance. Characterization of the fiber geometry is necessary for research into the formation and the effects of fiber waviness in carbon fiber composites. An algorithm has been developed for tracing fibers in a surface micrograph. This algorithm is based on sequential two-dimensional discrete Fourier transforms. This method allows to accurately construct fiber paths from a surface micrograph. From these curves the geometric properties, such as misalignment angle, amplitude and wavelength can be derived. Additionally, image artifacts are detected and marked as a possible defect. The obtained geometric properties can be used as an input value for the research into effects of defects, and for characterizing the results from research into the formation of waviness.