ComPRIS has many of the advantages of vacuum based systems such as VARTM or SCRIMP. However, ComPRIS also provides additional advantages for some applications because pressure instead of vacuum is used:

The use of pressure eliminates any problems of vacuum-induced defects. NO vacuum-induced microvoids causing strength reduction are produced with ComPRIS. (SEE IMAGES below comparing SCRIMP and COMPRIS microscopically)

In the SCRIMP process, vacuum-induced voids are produced in the matrix.These voids cannot be seen with the eye, but do decrease the strength of the final FRP.

ComPRIS: Pressure Resin Infiltration produces FRP composites and FRP composite interphase regions without microvoids.
Left: FRP fabrication using ComPRIS infuses fabric reinforcement with no vacuum-induced microvoids.
Center and Right: FRP composites fabrication and lamination to other porous matrices (wood in this case). INTERPHASE bonding rather than an abrupt glue line as occurs in conventional bonding produces a stronger bond, less subject to delamination.

Pressure also allows heavy fabrics and thick parts to be penetrated. In general, the greater the density of the fabric, all other processing parameters being equal, the greater the strength of the final product.

ComPRIS can be used to fabricate FRP composites as well as hybrid laminated materials ALL IN AN ONE-STEP PROCESS.

ComPRIS can also be used to fabricate both flat and curved FRP composite parts, such as the skate board etc.

The ComPRIS process allows fasteners and other dissimilar materials to be imbedded within the FRP matrix DURING FABRICATION.

Rods imbedded in thick FRP part fabricated using ComPRIS.

When desired, pressure allows the resin to penetrate into core or laminate materials resulting in greatly enhanced bonding properties, reducing or eliminating delaminati on problems.

Cement core reinforced with glass fiber using ComPRIS.

Because of the pressures used, improved resin penetration, reduction or elimination of flow or resin distribution media is often possible.

       ComPRIS, Advanced Engineered Wood Composites Center
                                University of Maine | Orono, ME 04469
    phone: (207) 581-2888 | info@compriscomposites.com | fax: (207) 581-2875

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