Abstract: A 0.005-0.020 inch thick thermoplastic sheet containing 20-80 weight percent metal alloy biocide particulate, such as 50 micron copper powder, protects submarine structures from adhesion of flora and fauna. The sheet is isotropic and inelastically deformable in the plane of the sheet. The sheet is heated to form and adhere it to the ship hulls and the like. An intermediate lower melting point film and other aids are employed in the adhering step. Heating of the sheet prior to the adhering process minimizes liberation of environmentally harmful volatiles. The sheet is removable by heating, so the material may be recycled.

Abstract: A method of curing a lay-up of a composite article in an autoclave, the method including a silicone rubber sheet which conforms to the lay-up thus preventing bridging of the sheet and reducing the possibility of tearing of the sheet.

Abstract: Stator vanes located between compressor stages in a gas turbine engine are fabricated with a composite outer shell made of graphite fibers in an epoxy binder that is laid-up over a core of felt-like material selected to have an elongation velocity that is greater than the elongation velocity of the shell.

Abstract: A limited pressure expansion material that includes a plurality of microspheres uniformly dispersed throughout a thermally expansive material such as silicone rubber. Upon heating within a sealed curing device such as an autoclave, the pressure rise of the thermally expansive material is reduced near the pressure at which the microspheres begin to implode.

Abstract: Stator vanes located between compressor stages in a gas turbine engine are fabricated with a composite outer shell made of graphite fibers in an epoxy binder that is laid-up over a core of felt-like material selected to have an elongation velocity that is greater than the elongation velocity of the shell.