SBIR-STTR Award

Imitec proposes to make processable low molecular weight polyimides such as LaRC-PETI-5 and LaRC-LV type resins from solvent free or low solvent procedures using simulated extrusion conditions. The proposed "melt" process is an innovation because polyimides are traditionally synthesized using solution polymerization techniques generating significant quantities of waste. Efforts will focus on the types of polyimides currently being tested in NASA's High Speed Research Program. The project objectives include the successful synthesis of polyimides via extrusion like melt processes with resin properties equal or better than traditional routes and suitable for low cost fabrications. NASA and the aerospace industry have significant demands for high performance polyimides in the need to replace metal components with light weight composites. Polyimide powders are becoming more desirable to prepreggers as stricter environmental regulations are being enforced. In addition, solvent free polyimides are needed in various fabrication techniques both by NASA and the aerospace industry. These techniques include Advanced Tow Placement (ATP) and Resin Transfer Molding (RTM). The anticipated results of polyimides made this way are better composite properties due to absence of residual solvents and better wet out because low molecular weight polymer chains are not extracted.

___(NOTE: Note: no official Abstract exists of this Phase II projects. Abstract is modified by idi from relevant Phase I data. The specific Phase II work statement and objectives may differ)___ Imitec proposes to make processable low molecular weight polyimides such as LaRC-PETI-5 and LaRC-LV type resins from solvent free or low solvent procedures using simulated extrusion conditions. The proposed "melt" process is an innovation because polyimides are traditionally synthesized using solution polymerization techniques generating significant quantities of waste. Efforts will focus on the types of polyimides currently being tested in NASA's High Speed Research Program. The project objectives include the successful synthesis of polyimides via extrusion like melt processes with resin properties equal or better than traditional routes and suitable for low cost fabrications. NASA and the aerospace industry have significant demands for high performance polyimides in the need to replace metal components with light weight composites. Polyimide powders are becoming more desirable to prepreggers as stricter environmental regulations are being enforced. In addition, solvent free polyimides are needed in various fabrication techniques both by NASA and the aerospace industry. These techniques include Advanced Tow Placement (ATP) and Resin Transfer Molding (RTM). The anticipated results of polyimides made this way are better composite properties due to absence of residual solvents and better wet out because low molecular weight polymer chains are not extracted.