Nanocomposites for Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites

Triton Systems, Inc proposes to address key issues with high temperature carbon fiber polymer matrix composites such as (i) low impact properties, (ii) microcracking during fabrication and thermal cycling, (iii) high temperature mechanical stability and(iv) hydrothermal degradation, to improve their operating range for the US Air Force. Triton Systems, Inc has teamed with the Center for Composite Materials (UD-CCM) at the University of Delaware to design and develop advanced carbon fiber reinforced hightemperature polymer matrix composites (PMC). These composites will be fabricated using nanoparticle reinforced high temperature resin matrices and carbon fibers sized with innovative elastomeric sizings capable of chemically bonding with the matrix.Improvements seen in matrix resin mechanical properties at relatively small loadings together with enhanced fiber/matrix interface properties, will synergistically combine to make a stronger composite with higher operating temperatures, higher thermalstability, better impact strength and long-term durability. Polymer matrix composites that can withstand high operating temperatures, corrosive environments, thermal and hydrothermal degradation will find tremendous applications 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 and chemical storage tanks.