Global advanced materials leader Syensqo and aviation giant Boeing have achieved a significant leap forward in aerospace materials technology through a collaborative effort. The two companies have successfully demonstrated Syensqo鈥檚 high-performance CYCOM 5250-4HT prepreg as a viable, lightweight replacement for traditional titanium in the exhaust nozzle of the MQ-25鈩� Stingray unmanned aerial refuelling vehicle. This innovation promises to unlock new levels of operational efficiency and supply chain resilience for the U.S. Navy's groundbreaking platform.
CYCOM 5250-4HT is a state-of-the-art bismaleimide resin system renowned for its exceptional thermal stability, even after extensive thermal cycling. This makes it an ideal material for applications in high-temperature environments, particularly those found near aircraft engines. Its versatility extends beyond aerospace, with potential uses in defense, propulsion, space and launch vehicles, and high-performance automotive sectors. The material is available in a variety of carbon, glass, and quartz product forms, ensuring broad applicability and compatibility with Syensqo鈥檚 comprehensive range of high-temperature adhesives and surfacing products.
The MQ-25鈩� Stingray, destined to be the world鈥檚 first operational carrier-based unmanned aerial refueling vehicle, is already at the forefront of naval aviation. Its wing and fuselage skins are constructed with Syensqo's high-performance CYCOM prepregs and FM adhesive materials, showcasing a long-standing partnership focused on advanced composite solutions. The latest development, incorporating CYCOM 5250-4HT into the exhaust nozzle concept, represents a crucial step in further reducing the aircraft's overall weight.
This lightweighting offers several compelling advantages. By shedding weight previously attributed to titanium components, the MQ-25鈩� Stingray can carry a greater fuel load, directly enhancing its operational range and refueling capabilities. Furthermore, reducing reliance on a critical metal like titanium bolsters supply chain resilience, mitigating potential vulnerabilities and ensuring a more stable and predictable production environment.
Josh Dustin, Senior Manager with Boeing Research & Technology, Structures Technology, emphasized the critical nature of this validation. 鈥淭he successful technology demonstration, made possible through the close collaboration between Boeing and Syensqo engineering teams, has validated the feasibility of integrating the CYCOM 5250-4HT material system into a composite exhaust nozzle structure. This was a critical step in pushing forward the art of the possible with high-temperature composite applications.鈥�
Marc Doyle, Executive Vice President of Syensqo Composite Materials, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the strength of the ongoing partnership. "Syensqo is delighted to continue our strong collaborative relationship with Boeing to enhance the MQ-25鈩� Stingray vehicle performance. This achievement demonstrates our commitment to driving innovation in high-temperature composites for the most demanding aerospace environments."
This successful demonstration not only underscores the power of industry collaboration but also sets a new benchmark for the integration of advanced composite materials in challenging aerospace applications.
