Combining LaRC-TPI powder with carbon fiber by electrostatic fluidized bed coatingThermoplastic polyimide prepreg tow is produced rapidly and efficiently by applying the LaRC-TPI matrix as an electrostatically charged and fluidized powder to electrically grounded and spread carbon fiber tow. The powder is melted after coating to insure adhesion to the fibers and to reduce tow friction. Excellent wetout in towpreg samples is obtained resulting in very flexible prepregs. Processing conditions of this towpreg produced with LaRC-TPI powders from Rogers Corp. and Mitsui Toatsu Chemicals are described. Mechanical properties of the towpreg and unidirectional laminates are presented in detail.
Document ID
19900046059
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Varughese, Babu (Georgia Inst. of Tech. Atlanta, GA, United States)
Muzzy, John (Georgia Institute of Technology Atlanta, United States)
Baucom, Robert M. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)