In this Army Phase I SBIR program, MATECH proposes to develop high strain-to-failure composites that significantly outperform current polymer matrix composites used in Army helicopters, notably to replace IM7/8552 composites. If Successful, these new composites will have significantly higher strain-to-failure (~5 percent), higher specific strength, and higher specific modulus, all of which are critical for aerospace structural applications. MATECHs approach is to use a highly modified Carbon Nanotube (CNT) based yarn with significantly improved strength, stiffness and toughness. These composites, based on nano-crystalline diamond (NCD)-bonded CNT preforms, can be shaped and densified with toughened epoxies or other matrices to produce a suite of advanced components and composite systems. This SBIR program could potentially result in breakthrough lightweight composite materials for aviation, automotive industry, and other transportation sectors which benefit from improved performance and a concomitant reduction in weight. This Phase I SBIR program benefits from the active support and participation of MD Helicopters, Hexcel Corporation, and the American Boronite Corporation.
