The Aerospace and Defense markets have some of the highest demands for material performance seen in any industries. There is a constant goal of producing lighter yet stronger parts, all while maintaining the appropriate level of ruggedization to get the job done in even the most extreme environments. This has led to the development and implementation of many advanced materials such as specially formulated epoxies, silicones, urethanes, paints & coatings, ceramics, and even thermal management materials.
Epoxies are frequently used in A&D as adhesives, gap fillers & liquid shims, potting compounds for electronics, impregnated and pre-impregnated (pre-preg) fibers, and even coatings. They are often favored because they are very versatile, easy to work with, and can be processed/cured quickly. They can be formulated with a low viscosity for application like conformal coatings or with higher viscosity and even thixotropic properties when they need to stay in place and not “slump” for applications like abradable materials. Epoxies can be packaged into cartridges or syringes and extruded to simplify handling and application. Their reaction/cure can also often be accelerated with heat to further reduce process times.