EN 2558:1997

Overview

EN 2558:1997 (CEN) specifies a method to determine the volatile content in carbon fibre preimpregnates used in aerospace applications. This standard supports consistent material characterisation and helps manufacturers, material suppliers and test laboratories assess the suitability of prepregs for high-performance composite production.

The standard is part of the aerospace series of standards and is intended to be used within quality assurance and material acceptance processes for aerospace composites. It addresses the need to control volatile matter-which can affect processing, curing and the in-service behaviour of composite structures.

Key Topics

• Scope and purpose: Describes the intent to measure volatile content in carbon fibre preimpregnates for aerospace use.
• Test principle (general): Outlines an accepted laboratory method for quantifying volatile constituents without prescribing proprietary equipment or brand-specific procedures.
• Sample handling: Emphasises representative sampling and appropriate handling to avoid changes in volatile content prior to testing.
• Reporting: Recommends reporting formats and key result parameters to support traceability and material comparison.

Keywords: EN 2558:1997, carbon fibre preimpregnates, volatile content, aerospace composites, prepreg testing, quality control, outgassing.

Applications

This standard has practical value across the aerospace composite supply chain:

• Manufacturers and converters: Use the method to verify raw prepreg batches meet internal and customer specifications prior to lay-up and curing.
• Quality assurance teams: Integrate volatile-content measurement into incoming inspection and lot-release procedures to reduce process variability.
• Test laboratories: Offer accredited testing services for material suppliers and OEMs requiring compliance evidence or product certification.
• Design and process engineers: Use results to evaluate potential impacts on curing, void formation and outgassing-sensitive applications (e.g., avionics housings, vacuum-bag processes).

Benefits of applying EN 2558:1997 include improved processing consistency, reduced scrap and rework, and documented evidence of material conformity for aerospace procurement and certification.

Related Standards

Although EN 2558:1997 focuses on volatile content, it is typically used alongside other materials and test standards for aerospace composites, such as standards addressing:

• Prepreg handling and storage guidelines
• Cure cycle validation and resin characterisation
• Mechanical testing of cured laminates
• Outgassing and contamination control for aerospace environments

When implementing EN 2558:1997, organisations should ensure alignment with broader quality systems, supplier specifications and regulatory requirements relevant to aerospace composite manufacture.

For procurement and technical documentation, cite EN 2558:1997 and consult your national standards body or CEN for the official text and any national forewords or amendments.