Processing and properties of carbon fiber reinforced triple-A polyimide (Tri-A PI) matrix composites

Abstract

This paper presents experimental results for the processing and mechanical properties of carbon fiber reinforced composites of a newly developed amorphous, asymmetric, and addition type polyimide (Triple-A PI). The imide oligomers were synthesized from the reaction of 2,3,3′,4′-biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride (a-BPDA), 4,4′-oxydiaminine (ODA), and phenylethynyl phthalic anhydride (PEPA). Because of amorphous structure, the melting point and melt viscosities of the polymer are relatively lower as compared with similar polyimides such as LaRC™ PETI-5. In spite of the lower molecular weight of the imide oligomer (<2500 g/mol), the cured polymer exhibits excellent mechanical properties because of the irregular and asymmetric structure as well as flexible end-capper. Carbon fiber reinforced composites were fabricated by routing prepreg consolidation. The composites exhibit excellent mechanical properties with high glass transition temperature (>320°C).