One of the major limitations of polymeric composites for structural applications was the ability of the matrix to withstand and maintain load transfer capability at high temperatures. The current project, HicTac, addressed this drawback and aimed at the development of composites capable to withstand temperatures above 360 degrees.

The technical strategy was to continue the development of polyimide (PI) based chemistries. Such development was already ongoing at one of the partners, Nexam AB – a company that develops and produces high temperature polymers and chemistries. Effort was spent on adapting and proving that such polymers can be used for manufacturing composite samples and simplified composite structures.

This development was performed at Swerea SICOMP AB - research institute devoted to development of composite material technologies. The properties of the composites material were thoroughly characterised in terms of mechanical properties under environmental loadings. The project also included development, manufacturing and testing of simplified but relevant sub-elements as well as manufacturing of a certain number of aerodynamically shaped parts.