COMPOSITE TOOLING CONTAINING CARBON NANOTUBES AND PRODUCTION OF PARTS THEREFROM

摘要

Toolings containing a composite having a coefficient of thermal expansion of less than about 5 ppm/° C. are described. The composites contain a matrix material and a carbon nanotube material and are operable for forming a part thereon. Methods for forming such toolings and use of such toolings to form parts thereon are also described. The carbon nanotube material can be a carbon nanotube-infused fiber material. Use of the carbon nanotube material in the tooling allows decreased curing and consolidation process times of the part to be realized.