Polymer matrix composite joints, systems and methods for processing polymer matrix composite joints

A method for processing a polymer matrix composite joint, comprising:

• identifying a first polymer matrix composite structure and a second polymer matrix composite structure to be joined using resistive welding;
• placing a resistive film heating element on the first polymer matrix composite structure over a first contact area of the first polymer matrix composite structure, the resistive film heating element comprising a lignin-based carbonaceous material and defining a longitudinal form;
• and
• placing the second polymer matrix composite structure on the resistive film heating element such that a second contact area of the second polymer matrix composite structure is aligned with the first contact area of the first polymer matrix composite structure, the first contact area, the resistive film heating element and the second contact area defining a stack for the resistive welding at the polymer matrix composite joint.

A method for processing a polymer matrix composite joint, comprising:

• identifying a polymer matrix composite joint to be separated using resistive de-welding, the polymer matrix composite joint comprising a first contact area of a first polymer matrix composite structure, a second contact area of a second polymer matrix composite structure, and a resistive film heating element comprising a lignin-based carbonaceous material, the resistive film heating element defining a longitudinal form and disposed between the first contact area and the second contact area;
• connecting a power line from an electric power source to a first electrical connection at a proximal end of the resistive film heating element;
• and
• connecting a return line from the electric power source to a second electrical connection at a distal end of the resistive film heating element.