Thermoplastic Powder Technology for Advanced Composite Systems

Abstract

As high performance thermoplastic composites evolve as primary and secondary air craft structural materials, there exists a need to offer to the community a material form that greatly broadens the selection of thermoplastic matrix materials. As one looks at the choices of thermoplastic prepregs available on the market today, an evaluation must be given to the pros and cons of that individual material. Today, hot-melt prepregs result in a stiff, boardy form with no tack. This form severely limits the handleability in layup on complex contour tooling. If one attempts to offer tacky and drapeable prepreg, it is often at the expense of lengthy processing that allows solvent removal without void formation.