Abstract: Described herein are composites that are composed of a plurality of plies with a stiffening grid intimately embedded within the composite. The composite structures have the improved buckling performance characteristics of known isogrid and orthogrid composite structures and yet have a significantly higher damage tolerance that permits such structures to be used in the formation of aircraft and spacecraft designs. Also described herein are methods for making the composites.

Abstract: Described herein are composites that are composed of a plurality of plies with a stiffening grid intimately embedded within the composite. The composite structures have the improved buckling performance characteristics of known isogrid and orthogrid composite structures and yet have a significantly higher damage tolerance that permits such structures to be used in the formation of aircraft and spacecraft designs. Also described herein are methods for making the composites.

Abstract: Embodiments in the present invention provide a system and method of joining structural members. This method involves aligning the first structural member to a metallic substrate when the first structural member has at least one tapered hole or cavity. A metallic or other like material suitable to cold spraying technology is deposited into the tapered cavity to form a shaped or tapered fastener bonded to the metallic substrate. The shape of the fastener secures the first structural member to the metallic substrate. Additionally, a protective insert may be placed within the shaped or tapered cavity to protect the first structural member during hoe cold spraying deposition when the first structural member is a composite material or other like material susceptible to erosion during the cold spraying technique.