Lackey The objective of this research is to advance the understanding of the processing of polymeric composites through the combination of ultraviolet (UV) and thermal cure processes. The research will address the exploratory work necessary to demonstrate the feasibility of this technique, and future projects will expand the scope of this research. Two commonly used composite manufacturing methods, namely filament winding and pultrusion, will be examined. The project will demonstrate the use of the UV cure technique with common polymeric production techniques, and will provide data which can be used to optimize the use of UV cure techniques for the production of high-quality, cost-effective polymeric composites. To facilitate technology transfer, commercially available materials and manufacturing equipment will be used in this study. The research will be conducted in collaboration with and supported by Shell Development Company and Loctite Corporation. The project will enable the investigator to take advantage of a unique opportunity to establish industry linkages while establishing a research area which is not currently being addressed in academia. It is expected that both educational and research opportunities will be enhanced by this activity.
