Low-Cost Extrudable Composites

Maxdem has developed a unique family of exceptionally high modulus, high strength, thermoplastic resins, designated Poly-X(TM), based on processable rigid-rod polymer technology. With proper processing, these polymers are expected to lead to a new class of ultra low-cost composite sheet materials. The objective composites will feature Poly-X(TM) resins in combination with only about 30% (by weight) of short glass, carbon, and/or aramid fibers. The resulting sheet stock is expected to be useful for further fabrication into parts via various manual or automated thermoforming techniques (e.g. bending or deep-drawing). Maxdem projects that such Poly-X(TM) composites will exhibit the mechanical properties of conventional two-dimensional long-fiber reinforced composites but at only a fraction of the price, thereby promoting insertion into a variety of products. The primary Phase I objectives are to verify the key properties of the Poly-X(TM) resins which will translate into realization of the new composites. Phase II efforts will build on this work and include more detailed testing of prototype systems and optimization of the composition and construction of a practical material for military and commercial uses.