JAXA: Latest composite joining technology: Weight reduction of aircraft
-How far has JAXA research progressed? –
JAXA:
JAXA supports “utilizing composite material CFRP”.
We are promoting the use of composite material CFRP, “the use of engine peripherals and internal composite materials that have not been used in aircraft until now.”
Currently, we are working on two themes as basic technologies.
Two research themes:
“Research on heat-resistant composite materials” that can be applied around and inside the engine, and
We are working on “research on composite material joining technology” aiming to break away from metals.
“Research on heat-resistant composite materials”:
Problems with conventional processes:
Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) is a material consisting of carbon fiber and uncured resin.
Laminate the sheet-like intermediate material (prepreg) and
The mainstream method is to heat and cure under pressure.
However, the big problem is that the solvent evaporates and defects occur during curing.
This time, we adopted dry prepreg:
JAXA is conducting research to overcome this problem by powdering “high heat resistance (365 degrees C) polyimide resin” and melt-impregnating it with a dry prepreg.
Adoption of ceramic composite materials:
In addition, ceramic composite materials
Has heat resistance exceeding 1000 degrees C,
Expected to be used inside the engine.
researching “a method of producing a three-dimensional shape from ceramic fibers and forming a ceramic matrix in the gaps”.
“Research on composite material joining technology”:
At present, CFRP is generally “assembled using bolts or the like following a metal structure”.
Adhesive structure adopted this time:
JAXA is considering “reducing the weight of joints by 20% or more by adopting an adhesive structure”.
To apply the adhesive structure to the main structure
Adhesive surface treatment method,
Adhesion shape optimization,
I am working on research on the effects of temperature and humidity on the adhesive part.
This time, we adopted thermoplastic resin:
We are also conducting research on applying thermoplastic resins, which soften when heat is applied, to the airframe structure.
Without using glue,
Fusion of CFRPs with ultrasonic waves,
We are also conducting research.
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