Nanomodified Carbon/Carbon Composites for Intermediate Temperature Structures

Nanomodified Carbon/Carbon Composites (NCCC) for intermediate temperature structures will be developed by combining selective nanoparticles in cyanate ester via optimum processing, followed by curing, carbonization and densification. These NCCC materials will exhibit improved thermo-oxidative stability beyond 700oF limit, involve lower cost NCCC materials, and replace titanium for structural components. Different Carbon/Carbon Composite processing techniques will be examined besides the conventional prepreg method which will include RTM and SMJ Carbon Technology patented methods. Wide angle X-ray Diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analytical methods will be used to determine the degree of dispersion of the nanoparticles in the cyanate ester. These techniques will be used as a guide for screening different formulations prior to scale-up. Improved heat stable surface modified MMT clay utilizing imidazole to surface treat MMT clay, boron modified and selected heat treated carbon nanofibers (CNFs) will be examined in Phase II studies. The unique features of SMJ Carbon Technology involving easy wet-out of carbon fiber by low viscosity monomer while retaining a high coking value allow uniform distribution of matrix material throughout preform or cured nanomodified cyanate ester/carbon fiber component. The ease of wetting results in infiltrating parts up to 10 inches and thus eliminates the thickness issue commonly associated with CCC materials.