Innovative Resin for Non-Autoclave Resin Film Infusion Composites Repair

Composite aircraft structures can be damaged and require field repair to make operable and safe for flight. Field repairs have typically been accomplished using two-part liquid resin systems or prepreg materials that require cold storage. These current technolgies are limited due to void formation in the composite, slow curing, and material cold storage requirements. An alternative resin film infusion (RFI)process can alleviate some of the problems associated with current repair materials. With the use of new and/or traditional cationic curing agents and innovative toughening mechanisms, fast cure speeds and ambient shelf-life in excess of two years can be realized without sacrificing composite performance. This novel technology as a system will provide the capability of using RFI effectively for repairing aircraft.