FIBER INSERTION PROCESS FOR IMPROVED DAMAGE TOLERANCE IN AIRCRAFT LAMINATES

Foster-Miller Inc. is developing a new product form to reinforce compo site structures through-the-thicknes entitled, ''Z-Fiber '' The produc t offers designers of composite structures the advantages and flexibil ity of 2D manufacturing techniques with 3D properties where needed The product is extremely versatile in reinforcement type and density and can be utilized with little or no alterations to cure or debulk cycles . In the sections which follow, details of the manufacturing capabilit ies and structural advantages are outlined. Data is reported demonstra ting an 18 x increase in Mode 1 fracture, 50% reduction in impact dela mination area and the ability to retain co-cured stiffeners on skins s ubjected to ballistic impact, all while retaining between 91 to 98% of tension and 100% of compression properties inplane.