Cytec Industries Inc. announced its selection as the preferred advanced materials supplier for the Leading Edge Aviation Propulsion (LEAP) high-bypass turbofan engine program.

Developed by CFM International, a joint venture between Snecma (Safran) and GE Aviation, the LEAP-1 engine program's use of advanced composite materials will reduce the weight by an estimated 500 pounds per aircraft.

The next-generation engine will reduce fuel consumption by 15 percent, nitrogen oxide emissions by 50 percent and noise by 15 decibels.  LEAP-1 engines are an option for Airbus's A320neo program and have been selected for the C919 program, COMAC's new single-aisle commercial jet.  Cytec is planning to expand production capacities in Europe and the U.S. to support the LEAP engine program.

"The great success of the LEAP engine will generate a production ramp-up extremely fast." said Xavier Dessemond, Vice President Purchasing of Safran. "Our partner CYTEC already selected on Leap-1A and Leap-1C applications, understood the need to set up a full production capacity from the entry into service of the LEAP."

The LEAP-1 engine will utilize Cytec's CYCOM  PR520 RTM resin system via its fan blades and containment cases based on its unique performance characteristics. CYCOM PR520 offers superior damage tolerance and good strain capability required for primary structure aerospace applications.  CYCOM PR520 performance characteristics widen the resin infusion processing window and help assure full fiber wetting.

"Cytec congratulates Safran and GE Aviation on the success of the LEAP-1 engine program and their innovative use of advanced composite materials," said Chris Pederson, Vice President, Commercial Aerospace Materials. "Cytec is committed to deliver advanced material technologies that address and surpass customer requirements globally and optimize performance, production and manufacturing costs."

Cytec develops advanced prepregs, resins and adhesives that are widely used in the aerospace and high performance industrial applications. Our composite products are complemented by a range of process materials. 

Corporate Profile

Cytec's vision is to deliver specialty material and chemical technologies beyond our customers' imagination. Our focus on innovation, advanced technology and application expertise enables us to develop, manufacture and sell products that change the way our customers do business.

Our pioneering products perform specific and important functions for our customers, enabling them to offer innovative solutions to the industries that they serve. Our products serve a diverse range of end markets including aerospace and industrial materials, mining and plastics.