High Conductivity Nanoscale Modification for Electrically Conductive Organic Matrix Composites

Traditionally, conductive paths in composite structures to mitigate the effects of lightning strikes have been established by bonding aluminum or copper mesh to the structure either as the outside ply or embedded one ply down or incorporating strands of conductive material into the laminate. For external surface protection, a number of metal and metallized fiber products have been developed, typically woven and nonwoven screens and expanded foils. These materials add weight, can corrode, and are difficult to repair. In this Phase I, NanoTechLabs will incorporate highly conducting carbon nanotube buckypapers into composite laminates for lightning strike protection. Buckypapers will save more than half the weight and are immune to corrosion.