Nanocomposite for Impact Mitigation in cOmposite missile skins (NIMO)

The goal of the proposed research by NextGen Aeronautics, the University of Nebraska Lincoln and Penn State University is to develop a fabrication technology for impact resistant carbon-fiber composite missile casings using a nanocomposite technology. The final Phase II hardware deliverable will be a nanocomposite carbon-fiber pressure vessel that demonstrates 30% improved impact mitigation when compared to its conventional counterpart. As demonstrated in Phase I, the nanocomposite will consist of 60% carbon fiber volume as well as energy dissipating nanofiber—the presence of which will not increase weight or pressure vessel thickness. Fabrication processing steps will be developed for large-scale manufacturing of nanocomposite coupons. A test matrix will be executed including different characterization approaches crossed with conventional and nanocomposite coupons before and after damage. This matrix is to demonstrate AMRDEC and RMS component compatibility where flow down of requirements is expected for several RMS programs including Joint Air to Ground Missile (JAGM), Laser Guided Rocket (LGR) and Active Protection System (APS). Analytical models will be developed that describe and predict the energy dissipation potential at matrix nanoscale interfaces such as the potential energy of absorption and surface energy of nanofibers. Additionally, investigations into passive identification of damage will be explored.