So-called Liquid Composite Moulding (LCM) technologies (SLI, LRI, VAP, VARI, etc.) promise to realize severe cost savings compared to the prepreg technique. The effort during fibre placement can significantly be reduced by using dry textiles which are already semifinished in a multi-axial stacking. Integral structures are easier to realize through these injection techniques. Initial aerospace structures like pressure bulkhead, vertical tail plane box or ribs are already in series production for A340-600 and A380 through this technique. However, the mechanical properties of the produced structures are not yet comparable to those manufactured in the conventional prepreg technique. This fact still limits the field of application of the LCM technologies.
In order to overcome the existing deficiencies systematic scientific research is required which covers all aspects of the parameter determination: reinforcement fibres, matrix systems, manufacturing technologies, measures of quality assurance, mechanical finishing, and testing methods.
Measures of material optimization can only be derived from a systematic research of the causes of the comparatively lower mechanical parameters.
The systematic determination of the parameters of textile composites is an essential prerequisite for a success of the cost saving LCM techniques in an industrial process.