High temperature multifunctional foam core materials

Triton Systems proposes a unique flame resistant structural foam that can be rendered electrically conductive for Radar Cross Section and Electro Magnetic (EM) Shielding control. This foam, called Triton conductive Flame resistant Foam (TCF-Foam), is fabricated from a PolyArylene Ether Phosphine Oxide (PEPO) with a Tg of 225C and a target cost of less than $19 per pound. The method of producing the foam utilizes a technology that was developed for the US Air Force that reduced the melt viscosity of the PEPO materials. The PEPO's are synthesized as low molecular weight macrocycles and then foamed and cured to form the high molecular weight polymer in a single step at 180C. The addition of an electrically conductive polymer at 3 weight % produce conductivities of up to 200 (ohm-cm)-1. This conductive polymer technology has been developed by Triton Systems for NASA. The polymeric based electrical conductivity has been demonstrated with electrically conductive space durable films for static discharge control and epoxy/graphite composites for EM shielding. Cone Calorimetry of the PEPO materials exceeded the MIL-STD-2031 when measured at 75 kW/m2. PEPO foam produced by Triton systems has a closed cell structure which is required for compatibility with VARTM processing.