Huntsman debuts composite solutions for aircraft interiors

In contrast to other materials used in interiors, Araldite FST 40002 / 40003 is an unfilled system.  The inherent FST properties of the system come from the chemical nature of the network and its high cross-link density & The new system meets the FAR 25.853 vertical burn, smoke and toxicity requirements with both carbon and glass fibre in all thickness configurations.

The heat release of the system is highly dependent on composite thickness, making it ideally suited for non-visible parts in the interior that do not have direct contact with potential ignition sources as well as cockpit parts that currently do not need to pass heat release.

Due to the filtration effect, filled systems are processed with open fabric where low fibre content sacrifices composites performance.  With the new Araldite system, the combination of excellent matrix mechanical properties and high fibre volume capabilities maximise performance, meeting industry demand for further weight savings.

By comparison to phenolic resins which are subject to a polycondensation type reaction and are used for non and semi-structural applications, Araldite FST 40002 / 40003 undergoes a polyaddition reaction without gas release.  This enables significant weight reduction, improved composites quality, elimination of intensive part production post-operations as well as a cleaner and healthier manufacturing solution for operators, supporting closed mold processes and VOC emissions free system exposure.

Olivier de Verclos, Technical Support, Composites & Tooling Team Leader, summarised:  “Advanced composites processes and materials are essential for high-performance fibre reinforced composites to penetrate the aerospace market to their full potential.  With Araldite FST 40002 / 40003, we are taking RTM and infusion processing into a new dimension to provide improved strength for lighter and mechanically superior parts which can be cost-effectively produced for the first time.

This innovative high-performance solution creates a radically new and much improved value proposition for aerospace designs, providing a preferred alternative to metal in structural applications and phenolics in non and semi-structural applications.”

Aircraft manufacturers are expected to deliver in excess of 17,000 new aircraft in the decade 2012-2022, including dedicated cargo planes.

The use of interior composites is expected to increase by some 50% over the period with the joint interests of operators and conservationists in the link between weight reduction and reduced carbon emissions.  With its track record in this sector, Huntsman Advanced Materials expects to consolidate its role as an innovator where product development impacts directly upon operator profitability.

Huntsman