High specific Strength Nano-scale Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composite

Triton Systems responds to the US Air Force's need for innovative materials technologies for advanced high specific strength polymer matrix composites (PMC) that would enable significant weight savings in rocket motor case applications. A nanoscalereinforced polymeric matrix, combined with innovative surface modifications to carbon fibers, will synergistically yield a hybrid polymer matrix composite with superior specific strength compared to existing composites, thereby reducing the neededthickness of composite rocket motor cases. The enhancement of matrix resin properties such as, i) interlaminar shear, ii) compressive strength, iii) fracture toughness, iv) thermal stability, and v) coefficient of thermal expansion will be achieved throughincorporation of Triton's proprietary modified nanofillers. Improved fiber-matrix interface (i.e. translation efficiency) is achieved via bonding between the matrix and the fiber. The development of high specific strength composites through this technologywill result in significant weight savings of up to 30% in rocket motor cases, helping achieve the Integrated High Payoff Rocket Propulsion Technology (IHPRPT) Phase III goals for Mass Fraction. Stronger and lighter composites will find tremendousapplications in various industries, both military and commercial. These include Aerospace, civil aviation aircraft structures, Naval composite structures, bridge and infrastructure building and rehabilitation, and under the hood automobile applications andchemical storage tanks.