Efficient On-Aircraft Composite Repair Process Requiring Minimal Support Equipment

More efficient on-aircraft repair processes are needed for structural organic-matrix composite components. In response to this need, TRI/Austin is developing UV curable matrix resins that provide elevated Tg, and high fiber strength translation. The matrix resin will be formulated to achieve glass transition temperatures of > 330F, to restore structural capabilities of damaged aircraft components. The developed resin will be designed to provide quality repairs with minimal support equipment. The less labor intensive process will reduce costs currently associated with composite repairs. Resin rheology and cure kinetics will be determined, and carbon fiber laminates will be fabricated to confirm composite mechanical properties. Composite panels will be produced and tested to verify that the process can produce parts having less than 4% porosity. The objective of reducing the total time for repair will also be addressed. Resin cost analysis and estimates for continued raw material availability will also be established. TRI/Austin brings experience in the field of UV curable composite development and testing. The development team also includes a company that has thirty years of experience in the area of composite repair technologies and a major helicopter manufacturer.