Abstract: Methods of repairing damaged composites are described. The damaged composites can comprise a polymeric matrix and one or more layers of fibers (e.g., carbon or glass fibers). According to the described method, the damaged area of the composite is replaced by an insert comprising a core geometry and radial projections. The insert can comprise the same polymeric matrix and one or more layers of fibers as the original composite of the damaged composite. The method can provide a repaired composite with greater compressive strength and/or greater tensile strength than a composite repaired with a traditional patch having no radial projections.

Abstract: A manufacturing method for incorporating holes in composite laminates (e.g., structural composites) is disclosed. Also described is a hole-making method for composite laminates prepared using heat vacuum assisted resin transfer molding (HVARTM) technique. In one example, the method comprises providing one or more layer of fibers; inserting one or more pins in the one or more layers of fiber; contacting the one of more layers of fiber with a resin for forming the polymeric matrix; curing the resin to form the polymeric matrix; and removing the one or more pins, thereby preparing a composite wherein the composite comprises one or more holes extending from an outer surface of the composite toward or all the way to an opposite outer surface of the composite. Composite materials produced by the method are also disclosed.

Abstract: Nanocomposites comprising a polymer matrix having a controlled dispersion of nanoparticles at high concentrations are described. The nanoparticles can be materials that absorb radiation. Thus, the nanocomposites can be of use in radiation shielding. Also described are methods of preparing the nanocomposites and multifunctional structures, such as sandwich panels, comprising the nanocomposites.

Abstract: The present invention provides a process for forming a composite material. The present invention further provides methods of improving the fiber volume fraction and/or the dimensional thickness of a composite panel.

Abstract: The present invention provides a process for forming a composite material having improved interlaminar properties.

Abstract: The present invention provides a process for forming a composite material. The present invention further provides methods of improving the fiber volume fraction and/or the dimensional thickness of a composite panel.