Abstract: A method of sub-ambient pressure processing of blow-molded polymer foams and skin-over-foam sandwich panel configurations for lightweight components having improved structural properties. The method can create either skinned or un-skinned foams that offer smooth interior and exterior surfaces, zero or controlled surface porosity, skins of pre-defined thickness, and foam cells that are expanded and oriented normal to the material plane, effectively spherical or polyhedral in nature, and offering improved bending and compressive strength.

Abstract: Prepregs, cores and composite articles are described that comprise lighter weight materials and/or lower amounts of adhesive than commonly used. In some instances, one or more components of the articles may comprise a repellent material or repellent treatment to reduce the overall absorption rate of adhesive into the components of the article.

Abstract: Certain embodiments described herein are directed to composite materials comprising untwisted fibers. In some embodiments, the article can include a core layer comprising a thermoplastic polymer and reinforcing fibers. In other embodiments, untwisted fibers can be disposed on the core layer. In certain examples, the article is effective to provide a Class A finish when painted.

Abstract: A method of sub-ambient pressure processing of blow-molded polymer foams and skin-over-foam sandwich panel configurations for lightweight components having improved structural properties. The method can create either skinned or un-skinned foams that offer smooth interior and exterior surfaces, zero or controlled surface porosity, skins of pre-defined thickness, and foam cells that are expanded and oriented normal to the material plane, effectively spherical or polyhedral in nature, and offering improved bending and compressive strength.

Abstract: A method of sub-ambient pressure processing of blow-molded polymer foams and skin-over-foam sandwich panel configurations for lightweight components having improved structural properties. The method can create either skinned or un-skinned foams that offer smooth interior and exterior surfaces, zero or controlled surface porosity, skins of pre-defined thickness, and foam cells that are expanded and oriented normal to the material plane, effectively spherical or polyhedral in nature, and offering improved bending and compressive strength.

Abstract: A method of sub-ambient pressure processing of blow-molded polymer foams and skin-over-foam sandwich panel configurations for lightweight components having improved structural properties. The method can create either skinned or un-skinned foams that offer smooth interior and exterior surfaces, zero or controlled surface porosity, skins of pre-defined thickness, and foam cells that are expanded and oriented normal to the material plane, effectively spherical or polyhedral in nature, and offering improved bending and compressive strength.

Abstract: A method of sub-ambient pressure processing of blow-molded polymer foams and skin-over-foam sandwich panel configurations for lightweight components having improved structural properties. The method can create either skinned or un-skinned foams that offer smooth interior and exterior surfaces, zero or controlled surface porosity, skins of pre-defined thickness, and foam cells that are expanded and oriented normal to the material plane, effectively spherical or polyhedral in nature, and offering improved bending and compressive strength.

Abstract: Prepregs, cores and composite articles are described that comprise lighter weight materials and/or lower amounts of adhesive than commonly used. In some instances, one or more components of the articles may comprise a repellent material or repellent treatment to reduce the overall absorption rate of adhesive into the components of the article.

Abstract: Certain embodiments described herein are directed to composite materials comprising untwisted fibers. In some embodiments, the article can include a core layer comprising a thermoplastic polymer and reinforcing fibers. In other embodiments, untwisted fibers can be disposed on the core layer. In certain examples, the article is effective to provide a Class A finish when painted.

Abstract: A method is provided for attaching a component to a fuel tank having a wall defining a tank cavity, an inner surface, an outer surface, and an access opening extending through the wall. The component is placed in contact with the inner surface of the fuel tank. The component is inductively welded to the inner surface of the fuel tank by an emitter coil disposed exterior of the fuel tank.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fuel tank assembly and method of securing a component in a fuel tank using induction welding. The method generally includes the steps of placing a component in contact with an inner surface of a fuel tank and inductively welding the component to the inner surface of the fuel tank. The fuel tank assembly generally includes a fuel tank having a wall having a cavity, an inner surface, an outer surface, and an access opening extending through the wall and communicating with the cavity and a component inductively welded to said inner surface.