Elastomeric Composite Bumpers

Bumper systems having lower cost and high performance are the goal of this research effort. To achieve this goal the use of recycled materials and advanced processing techniques will be investigated. These bumper systems will serve to protect the structural integrity of ships, piers, and offshore dock facilities, both military and commercial. More extensive usage of bumper systems can potentially save millions of dollars annually in repair costs to these structures. However, in order to successfully accomplish this, the unit cost of bumper systems must be reduced. Cost reductions in bumper manufacturing can be gained through both raw material and process choices. Because the stresses that bumpers must endure are significant, material candidates will be screened based on both mechanical and environmental performance. One cost saving factor that will be heavily investigated is the use of recycled raw materials. These will potentially include all components including foam, resins, and reinforcements. Processing options to be investigated include, filament winding, resin transfer molding, and pultrusion. After material and process evaluations, a subscale prototye bumper will be fabricated.