Advanced composite materials are engineered from two or more constituent materials with significantly different physical or chemical properties, combined to create performance characteristics not achievable by the individual components alone. In aviation, composites enable lighter-weight, stronger, more flexible, corrosion-resistant, and more heat-resistant structures than traditional materials, and are used in critical applications for all product types. These structural properties and damage tolerant design practices enable certain maintenance benefits, such as reduced inspection frequency, longer service intervals, and lower repair costs. This discipline addresses critical technical considerations such as material and process control, structural substantiation, damage tolerance, bonded joints, manufacturing technologies, maintenance procedures, database standards, and emerging composite material forms. This discipline also extends to the implementation of other advanced materials and processes in addition to composite materials.

Discipline leadership supports the safe and effective application of advanced composite materials within all areas of aircraft design, certification, production, and operations. This includes international collaboration with industry, other government agencies, standards development organizations, and academia to address safety, certification, and workforce education initiatives. The work also includes evaluating the readiness of emerging technologies and practices to inform FAA policy, guidance, engineering standards, and training.

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Dr. Larry Ilcewicz, Chief Scientist and Technical Advisor
larry.ilcewicz@faa.gov
2200 S 216th Street
Des Moines, WA 98198