About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
MS&T25: Materials Science & Technology
|
| Symposium
|
17th Symposium on Green and Sustainable Technologies for Materials Manufacturing and Processing
|
| Presentation Title |
Manufacture and Mechanical Performance of Bio-Based Thermoplastic Composites for Advanced Air Mobility Vehicles |
| Author(s) |
Meelad Ranaiefar, Allison Christy, Sandi Miller, Joseph Pinakidis |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Meelad Ranaiefar |
| Abstract Scope |
Since the Wright brothers’ first flight, the aerospace industry has consistently pursued reductions in component weight and improvements in overall aircraft efficiency. Although aluminum alloys have traditionally played a central role in achieving these goals, polymer matrix composites (PMCs) are gaining increasing traction for their ability to deliver greater weight savings, enhanced fuel efficiency, and improved sustainability. NASA’s Convergent Aeronautics Solution (CAS) project, Sustainable Manufacturing of Aircraft (SUMAC), aims to advance sustainable and resilient PMC technologies for advanced air mobility (AAM) by incorporating sustainable thermoplastic resins and natural fibers. As part of this effort, composites reinforced with flax fibers and bio-based thermoplastics—poly(lactic acid) (PLA), polyamide-11 (PA11), and poly(hydroxybutyrate) (PHB)—are being fabricated and evaluated for their mechanical performance. Through the systematic screening of these material systems, the project is generating insights to optimize processing parameters and address key material challenges. |