Optimized Matrices for Low-Cost Composites with Tailored Interphases - P4520

The innovation offered in this proposal is a science-based methodology to reduce composite fabrication time while retaining (or increasing) specific mechanical properties by tailoring resin chemistry and fiber sizing. The key to the methodology is to fully understand the fiber-resin interactions, fiber surface science, and cure kinetics to provide a more optimal resin formulation that balances cure cycle time and mechanical properties. The approach is dedicated to tailoring fiber-resin interaction through relatively small adjustments in the resin formulation, fiber sizing, and surface treatment, for a specific application rather than develop a new fiber-resin system that attempts to be a one size fits all approach. The end product is a series of design guidelines for engineers to select optimal fiber-resin system and cure cycle procedure that unifies and harmonizes structural design, resin chemistry, and manufacturing engineering.