Abstract: A single component, extremely low viscosity, pre-catalyzed high functionality diepoxide and epoxy resin system has been developed. This resin system has good thermal stability, an extended work life and is capable of being refrigerated to -18 C. and stored for extended periods of time with little or no change in physical or mechanical properties. The resin system has direct applications in a number of industries including, but not limited to, the aircraft and spacecraft industries. The resin system is a mixture of specific epoxy resins and curing agents that when combined form an extremely low viscosity resinous system that may be readily cured at a temperature as low as 52 degrees C. into novel thermoset materials prepared therefrom, which are characterized by superior strength properties and methods for preparing the same.

Abstract: The invention is an apparatus for forming fiber reinforced resin structures In detail, invention includes a fluid impervious outer first sheet. A mold surface is includes upon which can be supported a lay-up of at least one layer of fibrous material, and over which can be placed the first fluid impervious outer sheet and its edges marginally sealed upon the mold surface to form a chamber. A first vacuum port for drawing a vacuum upon the chamber is located in proximity to the lay-up. A first distribution medium is positioned between the fabric lay-up and the fluid impervious outer sheet for distributing resin into the lay-up. A second fluid impervious sheet is located between the first distribution medium and the first impervious sheet. A resin inlet port extends from the exterior of the chamber through the first and second impervious sheets an is in communication with the first distribution medium.

Abstract: An enhanced reinforced honeycomb structure is provided when at least one thread is stitched in a given pattern along each linear group of cells in the honeycomb structure. This reinforcement reduces the weight of the attached panels since additional structural strength is provided by the threads in the honeycomb structure.