New Composite Manufactuing Processes for Special Operation Forces Maritime Craft Hulls

Seemann Composites, Inc. (SCI), as the prime contractor, Materials Science Corporation (MSC) and McDonnell Douglas Phantom Works as subcontractors, propose to develop an advanced composite structure which will be significantly lighter, tougher and more reliable than previous hull structures and which can be built at a lower cost than conventional construction. Furthermore, problems with quality control and VOC emissions will be addressed. SCI believes that recently developed toughened resin systems, which are suitable for use in its patented SCRIMP resin infusion system, will offer significant improvements in ruggedness and service life for SOCOM SOF craft. Representative toughened resin systems will be tested for structural properties, in particular those properties which are indicative of toughness and resistance to delamination. A SOCOM SOF craft design will be chosen, and an optimized midship section will be designed. Damage resistant joints will be designed, tested, and incorporated into the structure. A midship section test part will be made using SCRIMP technology. Embedded sensors will be incorporated into the SCRIMP built section to demonstrate the practicality of using queriable sensors to monitor the health of a mission critical SOF craft. Comparisons as to weight and cost will be made.