The largest single regulatory obstacle to using advanced thermoset composite materials in certified aircraft and general aviation applications has been the generation of design allowables that will satisfy FAR 23.613 Material Strength Properties and Design Values.

Until recently, individual airframe manufacturers generated design allowable databases as a routine part of their certification effort. However, with expensive qualification costs and long timelines, this approach has proved unfeasible for smaller manufacturers, and has often led larger manufacturers with established databases to continue to use “old” composite material systems.

Key Nelcote materials participate in design allowable databases that are accepted by the FAA for a family of materials based on E-765 - a tough, shop-friendly, 180°F(82°C) Wet service epoxy composite material system that cures at temperatures as low as 250°F(120°C). Designed specifically for aerospace and critical aircraft structures and based on the latest developments in epoxy resin technology, Nelcote E-765 demonstrates good toughness, outstanding fiber property translation and is suitable for vacuum bag, autoclave, or compression molding processes.