Lightweight sandwich composites for improved thermal and acoustic performance

In the phase I SBIR program, Advanced Ceramics Research, Inc. (ACR), along with its partner developed an innovative manufacturing process for thermal and acoustic shielding sandwich composite components for the EFV. These panels met all thermal and weight requirements, were affordable and were close to the acoustic requirements outlined in the phase I solicitation. ACR is confident that with suitable modifications in the starting core thickness, it will be possible to meet the acoustic requirements. Based on preliminary mechanical property measurements, it is estimated that the sandwich construction should be capable of withstanding the load requirements of the application. An initial estimate suggested that the composite panels can be fabricated for modular construction to provide high repair/replaceablity at low cost. In the phase II program, the ACR led team will scale up the manufacturing process for fabricating full-scale sandwich composite components and meet all the technical requirements for the components. ACR will also closely work with the EFV prime contractor.