Structurally efficient CMC-PMC air frames

The Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) Team consisting of PSI, Draper Laboratories (Draper), and an airframe integrator are proposing a tunable hybrid composite structure capable of increasing the thermal operating performance by 500 C over conventional polymer matrix composites (PMCs). Our multifunctional composite approach combines PSIs low cost quasi-isotropic Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC) system, a graded tunable insulating layer, and a PMC base all positioned and secured with thru-thickness securing mechanisms. In the Phase I, this hybrid CMC/PMC formulation and increased thermal capability will be demonstrated on a series of hybrid CMC/PMC coupons and cylinders. In the Phase II program, the Team will manufacture prototype components and high fidelity test articles for mechanical, thermal, and chemical testing to validate the developed hybrid CMC/PMC aerothermal and thermostructural models.