Polymers and Polymer Composites

  • Thermoplastic and thermoset composites
  • High temperature system fabrication
  • Cure monitoring systems
  • Mathematical modeling of cure processes
  • Molecular dynamics calculations
  • Mechanical property measurements
  • Thermal property measurements
  • Composite structural design
  • Failure analysis
  • Adhesive joint analysis
  • Nonlinear viscoelastic analysis
  • Polymer degradation studies
  • Environmental testing

Properties of polymers are studied using a differential scanning calorimeter and thermogravimetric analyzer.

A computer-controlled high temperature autoclave is coupled with cure sensors and expert systems software for smart processing of polymer composites.

For more information on materials and structures, contact Dr. Ben H. Thacker, Mechanical Engineering Division, Southwest Research Institute, P.O. Drawer 28510, San Antonio, Texas 78228-0510, Phone (210) 522-3896, Fax (210) 522-6965.

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