Single ply 3Dwoven Functionally Gradient Multi-Fiber / Multi-Matrix Composites with Thermal Management Systems

In composites, not only can properties vary with load direction, fiber based composites also offer the unique ability to tailor material properties locally. Localized matrix or fiber architecture changes can meet local mechanical, electrical, or thermal loads within a component or vehicle, without weight penalty or resort to additional external structures. In Phase I, the team used 3TEX 3-D weaving technology and UD-CCM co-infusion technology to demonstrate techniques capable of local tailoring by producing a composite panel with a 5 to 10 fold increase in through thickness thermal conductivity within a selected area of the panel. For Phase II, the effort will focus on delivering a prototype of a marketable product while developing tools to progress the design and manufacturing technologies needed for local tailoring of properties. EMI enclosures offer an application that would both benefit from increased through thickness conductivity in a composite and offer a rapid route to market. Using the 3-D weaving technology along with co-infusion of resins will yield a solution which meets most of the performance and weight reductions gained with expensive all pitch tape laminated enclosures while keeping cost on par with a plain commercial grade carbon fiber VARTM part.