Inventors:
John Lombardi - Tucson AZ
Anthony Mulligan - Tucson AZ
Paul Calvert - Tucson AZ
Peter Creegan - Tucson AZ
Kevin Stuffle - Tucson AZ
International Classification:
B05D 300
B05D 302
Abstract:
The present invention generally relates compositions and methods for the preparation of three-dimensional bodies, e. g. , green bodies, ceramic-loaded green bodies, and polymer matrix composites, by the controlled, sequential deposition of layers of material upon one another. The method for preparing a green body comprises depositing a liquid composition having a viscosity of at least about 10 poise and comprising thermally-polymerizable components onto a base in a predetermined pattern to form a layer of the liquid composition on the base. Subsequently, at least one further layer of the liquid composition is deposited on a previously-formed layer in a predetermined pattern to form a multi-layered intermediate and, then, the multi-layered intermediate is heated to cause the thermally-polymerizable components to polymerize, providing the three-dimensional green body. Another method of the present invention provides a method for reinforcing a green body with fibers. More than simply reinforcing the body, however, this particular aspect of the present invention allows the alignment of reinforcing fibers in the body to be controlled.