Fabrication and Process Optimization of Thick Laminates from Carbon Fiber/Polyimide Composites

ABSTRACT: This Phase I Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Program will develop and demonstrate improved high temperature polyimide processing for future realization in manufacturing thick, complex structures for commercial and military systems. In order to achieve the goals of the SBIR solicitation, we have assembled a team with unmatched experience in the key elements necessary for success: structural polyimide science, materials supply, process science, process modeling, and thick polyimide composite aerospace structure manufacturing. In this SBIR program, we will utilize our previous experience in manufacturing process development and the latest in polyimide prepreg technology. The methodology being developed in this work has broad applicability to manufacturing all PMR-type thermosetting polyimides as well as polyimide prepregs based on the poly(amic acid) route, and the process modeling elements are directly applicable to compression molded and autoclave manufactured thick structures. BENEFIT: Commercial aircraft structures, commercial aircraft engines, DoD systems