Small Business Innovation Research Safe Polyimides for LowCost

Small Business Innovation Research Safe Polyimides for Low-Cost Processing of High-Temperature Composites Maverick Corporation Cincinnati, OH INNOVATION A family of cost competitive, high-temperature polyimide resins that are void of toxic compounds ACCOMPLISHMENTS u 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 u 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 u Complex parts produced included: LH 2 Test Duct for Reusable Launch Vehicles, High Pressure Cooling Tube, Center Vent Tube, and Stator Vane Bushings u Thermal and mechanical properties were measured to be comparable to the current state-of-the-art resin system, PMR-15 COMMERCIALIZATION u Recipient of a 2 year, $500 K, Ohio Technology Action Fund grant to commercialize the technology for high-temperature RTM u GRC contributing $50 K for this effort. Other supporters include the Air Force, GE Aircraft Engines and BF Goodrich contributing a total of $125 K u Commercial batches of resin and prepreg have been produced and supplied to a variety of aerospace customers 4 ft. Aircraft Engine Cooling Tube Produced using the Solvent-assisted RTM Process. GOVERNMENT/SCIENCE APPLICATIONS u The technology should find widespread uses in aircraft engines and airframe applications u These resins will reduce the cost and weight of aerospace structures; hence, useful to NASA’s space program u The military should find this technology useful in both aircraft and ground transportation Glenn Research Center Materials 3 -070 1996 Phase II, NAS 3 -98024, 7/01 NASA Contact – Michael Meador Company Contact – Eric Collins