Geoceramic MIDAR® Composites
Geoceramic MIDAR® Composites (GMC) bridge the temperature performance gap between reinforced polymers and ceramic matrix composites (CMCs). In high-temperature environments where reinforced polymers would fail and need to be replaced with metals, GMCs offer a lightweight alternative suitable for service temperatures up to 1100°C (2012°F) whilst demonstrating higher durability than other material solutions.
The comparatively low temperature processing method requires them to be cured at less than 100°C (212°F), reinforcing their application as a cost-effective alternative to Ox/Ox CMCs whilst opening up significant possibilities for the integration of polymer and metallic parts through polymer composites or at metallic fixing points.
Through customized formulations using a range of materials, we can develop GMC materials for you. We can tailor these to application-specific requirements, demonstrating suitability for a range of harsh environment use cases. Their properties can be optimized for structural and mechanical properties, as well as high temperature resistance and desired thermal conductivity levels.
GMC technology types
UltraGMCTM
UltraGMCTMs are produced using high-performance alumina fibres and as such will operate continuously at 1100°C (2012°F) in most environments.
Ideal for semi-structural applications where damage tolerance and thermal shock resistance is required.
SprintGMCTM
These carbon fibre-based GMCs offer excellent strength-to-weight at a lower cost than UltraGMCTM composites. These composites can operate continuously at temperatures up to 500°C (932°F) and can offer a limited time operation at temperatures as high as 800°C (1472°F).
Like most GMCs, these lightweight and cost-effective composites can be applied to metallic and polymer substrates or integrate metallic components, as the composite is cured at < 100°C (< 212°F). Ideal for applications in aerospace and automotive, including battery containment.
SprintPlusGMCTM
SprintGMCTM carbon fibre technology with improved temperature durability. The formulation and processing of this composite has been optimised to provide enhanced oxidation resistance to the carbon fibres, making the composite capable of operating at higher temperatures for longer durations. This is an ideal composite for short-term extreme environments that do not require pre-cure integration with metallic or polymer components.
EndureGMCTM
The most cost-effective GMCs, utilizing glass or mineral fibres to produce composites capable of operating for limited durations as high as 800°C (1472°F). These composites do not have the strength of UltraGMCTM or SprintGMCTM but they are effective as fire-safe semi-structural materials, retaining at least 50% of their strength during and after fire events whilst producing no smoke or fumes. Like all GMCs these composites are also highly resistant to corrosive and abrasive environments, making them desirable in transport, civil, and marine applications.
Geopolymer Matrix Composites for use at High Temperature - Fabrication, Properties and Applications
This white paper details the processing considerations for manufacturing GMCs, the remarkable properties of such materials, and applications where GMCs have been successful.