Richard Kupke

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Richard Kupke is a leading figure in the non-destructive evaluation and processing of advanced composite materials, with a particular focus on carbon fiber reinforcements. His key research areas encompass the characterization of textile preforming behavior and the detection of manufacturing-induced defects in discontinuous fiber composites. Kupke’s major contributions include pioneering the use of eddy current techniques for analyzing the 3D draping behavior of carbon fiber non-crimp fabrics, a method that provides critical insights into material deformation during forming processes. His most-cited work, "Analysis of the 3D draping behavior of carbon fiber non-crimp fabrics with eddy current technique" (2017, 47 citations), has become a foundational reference for researchers studying fabric mechanics. Additionally, his 2022 study on "Quality Analysis of Weld-Line Defects in Carbon Fibre Reinforced Sheet Moulding Compounds" addresses a critical challenge in compression molding—the formation of weld-lines that compromise structural integrity. By advancing automated eddy current scanning for defect detection, Kupke has enabled more reliable manufacturing of complex, load-bearing composite components. His work bridges the gap between process simulation and real-time quality assurance, making him a key contributor to the industrialization of high-performance carbon fiber composites.