Z-Fiber Reinforced RTM Composites
Technology Description Resin transfer molding (RTM) is a low-cost composites fabrication method used in many commercial products and secondary aircraft structures such as doors and access panels. This project investigates a low-cost concept for fabricating higher strength RTM composites enabling their use in primary aircraft structures. The approach uses discrete fiber reinforcements positioned transverse to fabric or through a stiffener-skin interface. Novel fabrication methodology is proposed that achieves 3-D architecture without weaving or stitching. This methodology is fundamentally low-cost and is scaleable to large preform articles and roll-to-roll products.Potential Benefits Low-cost, high strength RTM composites would have broad structural application for air and land transportation. Development Status ESLI performed a Phase 1 SBIR contract with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to develop low-cost, high-strength RTM composites for use in primary aircraft structures. Phase 1 work developed the z-fiber implantation process for RTM preforms and fabricated a matrix of planar RTM composite parts for in-house mechanical testing. Selected articles were tested by a major airframer and compared with a database of materials properties to determine achievable strengths vs. fiber configuration. The suitability of the concept for primary aircraft structures was assessed in addition to other potential applications such as thermal management and lightning strike protection. Phase 2 would further develop the methodology and scale up to the fabrication of prototype components such as a skin with integral stiffeners. Component design and testing would be performed in collaboration with an airframer.
DARPA Phase 1 SBIR (F3361596C3202) |
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