Low Cost Ceramic Matrix Composite Materials for BMDO

Production Products Manufacturing and Sales with support from Southern Research Institute (SRI) and McDonnell Douglas Aerospace (MDC) proposes an innovative program which will utilize intelligent processing to produce affordable 2000 F capable ceramic matrix composites. Innovative preform fabrication and diaphragm forming consolidation approaches will be developed in Phase I for producing high modulus glass ceramic matrix composite (GCMC) BMDO structures. These composites can replace metal alloys in critical high temperature BMDO, aerospace, and commercial applications for weight savings, more efficient combustion and other high value survivability enhancements. We will combine GCMC s from Corning with a diaphragm forming process and use intelligent, sensor-based process control to achieve first time quality and lower fabrication costs. Technologies developed in the program will be demonstrated in Phase II by the fabrication and test of an MDA BMDO/missile component. Successful demonstration of this technology will advance its use in applications critical to national security and will create dual-use opportunities. Our technical support partners SRI and MDA bring key technology to the Program and are motivated by future benefits in their respective technology resulting from the effort. We will vigorously pursue future opportunities to create and productize new markets for ceramic matrix composites and for sensor-based intelligent processing.