Hybrid fiber metal laminate structures and related techniques

Abstract

Fiber metal laminates (FMLs) can be fabricated by laminating fiber reinforced composite layers between thin metal sheets. Fabrication of FML structures having complex curved shapes can present challenges. The present inventors have recognized that textile methods can be used fabricate various FML structures made from woven, braided, or knit layers, or combinations thereof, as illustrative examples. In this manner, various examples can provide FML structures having specified shapes or curvature. As an illustration, composite fiber tows can be woven with thin metal strips or metal wires, followed by lamination. Tensile tests were performed using woven glass-fiber and aluminum-strip structures and compared to similar commercial fiber metal laminate physical properties.

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