Materials and Process Development of Aerospace Polymer Matrix Composites

Abstract

Materials and process development is cross-cutting by nature as similar material properties are often required by multiple programs. At NASA, therefore, working as a materials research engineer provides a unique opportunity to be associated with a variety of programs and vehicle platforms. Furthermore, dual applicability in both aeronautics and space structures provides opportunity to work with legacy materials for aircraft and spacecraft but also to develop new materials as the architecture, operation, or mission of vehicles evolve. Materials work at NASA is often driven by the associated application, generally based on structural load requirements and operating temperature regime. My research, specifically, is focused on polymer-based composites, which are a lightweight alternative to metals for primary or secondary structures.