Safe Polyimides for Low-Cost Processing of High-Temperature Composites

Maverick Corporation

Cincinnati, OH

A family of cost competitive, high-temperature polyimide resins that are void of toxic compounds

• Developed a family of low-toxicity polyimides that exhibit glass transition temperatures up to 335°C (635°F) and excellent thermal oxidative stability to 316°C (635°F) in aircraft engine environments
• These "novel" polyimides can be manufactured from fabric or braid using a variety of processes including: autoclave, solvent-assisted Resin Transfer Molding (RTM), and compression molding
• Advanced the SOA of RTM to a 260°C(500°F) use temperature
• Complex parts produced included: LH2 Test Duct for Reusable Launch Vehicles, High Pressure Cooling Tube, Center Vent Tube,and Stator Vane Bushings
• Thermal and mechanical properties were measured to be comparable to the current state-of-the-art resin system, PMR-15

• Recipient of a 2 year, $500K, Ohio Technology Action Fund grant to commercialize the technology for high-temperature RTM
• Supporters include GRC, the Air Force, GE Aircraft Engines and BF Goodrich contributing a total of $175K
• Commercial batches of resin and prepreg have been produced and sold to both Boeing and P&W for quality testing

• The technology should find widespread uses in aircraft engines and airframe applications
• These resins will reduce the cost and weight of aerospace structures; hence, useful to NASA’s space program
• This material has been chosen as a backup material for the Joint Strike Fighter Program; it is on competition for the drive shaft of the Commanche Program

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Curator: SBIR Support