SMFB Technology

In the Phase I effort, GTL will demonstrate the feasibility of the SMFB technology for fusion bonding of thermoplastic matrix composites. GTL will perform a series of experiments to quantify the effectiveness of various SMFB configurations. The effort will also explore several options for introducing the required heat to melt the thermoplastic around the SMFB. Once these data are known, GTL will fabricate a series of labscale SMFB plies and use them to fusion bond the lap joint between two thermoplastic cylinders. After inspection for voids and flaws, the joined cylinders will be structurally tested to quantify the lap shear strength of the fusion bonded joint. In the Phase I option effort, GTL will apply the knowledge gained in the first part of the effort to design a SMFB ply that is compatible with a seven-inch diameter TPMC motorcase and airframe. Several proof-of-concept SMFB plies will be fabricated and used to demonstrate the fusion bonding technique. It is envisioned that the Phase II effort will include additional validation of the bonding performance and will seek to expand the SMFB toolbox to include additional thermoplastic materials, fiber materials, and configurations.