Research Activities: 2003

Soy-based Composite Sandwich Structures -- Phase II

Status

Complete

View Report:

PDF 
 

Sequential Number

R101
 

Matching Research Agency

Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council
 

Principal Investigator

K. Chandrashekhara
Professor
University of Missouri-Rolla
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and Engineering Mechanics
Rolla, MO 65409-0710
p(573) 341 4587
f(573) 341 6899
chandra@mst.edu
 

Student Involvement

One graduate student
 

Project Objective

To manufacture composites using soy-based resin system and soyhull based foam.
 

Project Abstract

The cost of producing hollow or sandwich composite parts can be competitive with conventional materials. The soy-based resin system can be used as the matrix to bind the reinforcement package. The interaction between fibers and matrix is important in designing damage-tolerant structures. Composite panels with soyhull foam will be manufactured and characterized. The fiber/matrix/core interface will be studied to examine the level of bonding.
 

Anticipated Benefits

Use of soybean-derived materials offer low-cost raw materials and environmentally sustainable benefits.
 

Modal Orientation

Construction materials
 

Milestones

Project Start Date:7/01/03
Project End Date:6/30/04
 

Relationship to other Research/Projects

This project is the second phase of UMR UTC research project R78.
 

Technology Transfer Activities

Low-cost composites can be used in affordable composite housing
 

Transportation Research Board Keywords

Composite manufacturing, soy-based composites