Fast Curing Modular Composite Patch System for Field Applications

SOCOM requires a method to field repair multiple materials as well as to mount armor and related hardware for a variety of tactical purposes with a composite material. To address this need, we propose application of a “Modular UV Patch” (MUVP) system that incorporates ultraviolet curing resin systems and an innovative technique for delivering the UV light through optically leaky fibers that form a composite material. This patented modular patch system will be self-contained, easy to use, and provides rapid curing (seconds) while also providing a capability for underwater applications. The UV based resin systems offer increased shelf life, and elimination of special storage facilities, with a minimal “tail” of supporting equipment while maintaining the strength associated with both conventional thermal cures and competing bonding compounds. The Phase I effort successfully demonstrated safe and quick attachment to a variety of materials. The Phase II effort will further the development of this system, validate prototypes with operational environmental testing and deliver 10 prototypes. BENEFITS: The successful implementation of this concept would result in a modular UV resin-based composite repair and patching system which could offer an order of magnitude reduction in cure times and a greatly simplified repair process relative to current thermally based resin systems. A commercial product based on this technology has applications wherever fast-turnaround field repair of composite structures is needed, including structures, aircraft repairs, marine applications, and potential medical uses. This technology has an even greater commercial potential in the manufacture of new composite products and where fast, on-demand bonding of dissimilar materials is required.