Project Title:
Lightweight, High-Strength PBO Structures for High-Altitude Subsonic Aircraft
92-1-03.08-3200 NAS02-13782
Lightweight, High-Strength PBO Structures for
High-Altitude Subsonic Aircraft
Foster-Miller, Inc.
350 Second Avenue
Waltham, MA 02154-1196
Leslie S. Rubin (617-890-3200)
Abstract:
The specific strength and stiffness of high-altitude subsonic
aircraft structures can be significantly improved through the use
of lyotropic crystal polymers (LCPs). In Phase I, an advanced LCP,
polybenzoxazole (PBO) and a new generation LCP extrusion die will
be used to produce lightweight and high strength honeycomb cores.
These cores will permit the manufacturing of aircraft wings
suitable for extended subsonic flight above 70,000 feet. The PBO
cores are expected to have specific properties that are two-to-
four times higher than today's leading lightweight structural
cores. Phase I will initially concentrate on the fabrication and
modification of a new generation of biaxially oriented PBO film
which exhibits significantly higher quasi-isotropic properties
than has been achievable to date. Protocols for fabricating film-
based PBO honeycomb cores will then be established by Hexcel, a
leading manufacturer of honeycomb core structural materials. The
project will conclude with the fabrication, testing and analysis
of prototype PBO honeycomb cores.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Applications: The successful development of
the lightweight, high-strength structures and their
commercialization by Hexcel will enable NASA to fabricate high
altitude (>70,000 feet) subsonic aircraft that can more
effectively perform global climate research. This technology will
have special commercial research appeal for the aircraft industry
to improve fuel efficiency, and the refrigerator industry to
manufacture better insulating materials. The advanced materials
created by this technology will also find a ready commercial
market with sports equipment manufacturers.
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