Project Overview
The aerospace industry demands materials that combine exceptional strength, minimal weight, and resistance to extreme environments. This project develops advanced composite panels incorporating carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to achieve unprecedented performance characteristics for next-generation spacecraft and aircraft structures.
Innovation: Our approach uses functionalized CNTs with novel dispersion techniques and optimized fiber architectures to achieve uniform reinforcement throughout the composite matrix.
Technical Approach
Material Engineering
- Multi-walled CNT functionalization for improved matrix bonding
- Hybrid fiber architectures combining carbon fiber and CNT reinforcement
- Resin transfer molding with CNT-enhanced epoxy systems
Simulation Framework
- Multi-scale modeling from molecular to structural level
- Finite element analysis of mechanical properties
- Thermal and vibration response characterization
Results and Outcomes
Weight Reduction
40%
Compared to conventional aluminum panels
Strength Increase
85%
Tensile strength improvement
Field Testing: Panels currently undergoing environmental testing at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, with preliminary results exceeding design specifications.