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Current high-temperature polymer composites often face tradeoffs in  mechanical performance, particularly in interlaminar shear strength (ILSS). These limitations constrain design possibilities and necessitate compromises in thickness and structural integrity, especially for applications requiring high glass transition temperatures (T_g). Goodman Technologies LLC (GT, Largo, Fla., U.S.) introduces aligned carbon nanotube ACNTs through the company’s GTNANO aligned nanoforest technologies (ANT) and nanoresins, which are reported to significantly enhance composite ILSS, toughness and fatigue resistance. This technology eliminates the need for increased thickness and larger corner radii, making it ideal for applications such as jet engine stator blades, where weight and performance are critical.

GTNANO ANT and nanoresin solutions, both patented and patent-pending, are compatible with a wide range of manufacturing processes, including additive and robotic methods, VARTM, RTM and so on, and can be integrated into the majority of composite systems — epoxy, polyimide, ceramic matrix, carbon/carbon and bismaleimide. GT says that this versatility makes ANT applicable across multiple domains, including air, space, sea and land. In the defense sector, ANT offers cross-enterprise solutions for the U.S. Navy and Department of Defense (DOD), enhancing composites used in aircraft, missiles, ships, turbine blades, spacecraft, CubeSats, drones and electromagnetic and weapons effects shielding. The technology also holds promise for thermal protection systems and hot structures, critical components in hypersonic flight and space exploration.

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The efficacy of ANT has been validated through multiple Phase I-III SBIR/STTR projects, demonstrating its ability to create lighter, stronger and tougher nanocomposites that can withstand extreme conditions such as hypersonic flight, deep cryogenics, space radiation and all-weather environments.

The introduction of ANT into composite materials has shown double- to triple-digit percentage improvements in key performance metrics, according to the company. For aircraft, these materials offer reduced weight, increased fuel efficiency and greater operational range, while maintaining low observability. Spacecraft benefit from enhanced dimensional stability and survivability in harsh environments. Furthermore, ANT technology reduces dimensional tolerances and scrap rates, making it well suited to precision applications like fighter aircraft. Supported by major aerospace and defense primes, GTNANO is poised to transition these advancements into Programs of Record for aircraft, missiles, spacecraft, drones, ships, turbine blades, shielding and hypersonic systems, using AI-empowered additive and robotic manufacturing for rapid and repeatable production.

Additional benefits seen in composites when integrating GTNANO ANT include:

• Introduction of a novel “Nano-Velcro” effect, which improves the mechanical and thermal properties of laminate composites. This technology enables composites to perform well in multiple directions, addressing the traditional weaknesses in laminate structures.
• Incorporation of ANT into existing composite systems reduces scrap, rework and repair costs, leading to a reduction in sustainment costs. The resulting materials exhibit 45-120% increases in Mode I fracture toughness, making them ideal for applications in extreme environments.
• ANT’s properties make it possible to create aircraft, drones and ships with reduced radar cross-sections, enhancing their stealth capabilities. This is crucial for both military and commercial applications where low observability is a strategic advantage.
• Development of nanoforest-enhanced polyimide, bismaleimide and epoxy composites addresses the specific needs of high-temperature applications. These materials are now stronger and more durable, with improved orthogonal properties, making them ideal for aerospace engine components, airframe structures and naval applications.

Examples of composite materials with the integration of GTNANO have shown an increase in Mode 1 fracture toughness and an indicator for ILSS:

According to GT, the transition of GTNANO ANT from research to real-world applications is underway. Beyond Phase II, GT plans to complete comprehensive mega-matrix testing in collaboration with engine and airframe system primes to build and test prototypes. These prototypes will validate the technology's performance in operational environments, paving the way for integration into Programs of Record.