High Performance 3D Composite Preforms Manufactured Via Novel In Situ Vapor Grown Carbon Fiber Infusion

The objective of this proposal is to develop and demonstrate the feasibility and payoff of novel in situ vapor grown carbon fiber (VGCF) reinforcement of 3D woven or braided composite preforms for advanced composite aerospace structural or thermal-structural applications. In this approach the carbon nanofibers are grown within the composite perform in a controllable and tailorable manner to yield the desired reinforcement size, morphology, and spatial distribution for the chosen advanced composite application. The approach holds tremendous promise to increase the strength, stiffness, and damage tolerance of advanced composites while preserving the inherent affordability of near-net-shape woven or braided preforms for component manufacturing. The technology is generally applicable with any composite preforming technology including carbon, graphite, glass, quartz, ceramic, or metal fiber woven, braided, or constructed performs. The resulting VGCF reinforced preforms can be tailored for optimal thermal and structural performance.