True Out-of-Autoclave (OoA) processing structural prepreg systems from Advanced Composites Group (ACG, part of the Composites Division of Umeco plc, specifically MTM®44-1, MTM®45-1 and MTM®46, are now firmly established in a number of market sectors. To further develop its OoA portfolio and complement existing products, ACG has added a new compatible adhesive system (MTA®241) and a surface improvement film (MTF316).

MTA®241 has been developed by ACG for applications where the lower temperature curing capabilities of MTM45-1 and MTM46 are to be exploited. Following a full post-cure, MTA241 offers the same performance spectrum as its higher temperature curing stable mate HTA®240.

The Group's new surface improvement film, MTF316, addresses surface quality issues that can be a potential problem when curing prepreg at lower pressures, and is fully compatible with the range of Advanced Composites Group OoA prepregs. This film can be supplied on a number of carriers/scrims to give a paint-ready surface directly from the tool and even on a conductive mesh to form in situ lighting strike protection.

ACG's recently released high temperature adhesive film, HTA®240, has been specifically developed to complement ACG's Airbus qualified MTM44-1 matrix system. HTA240 can be cured as low as 130°C (266°F) and, after full 180°C (356°F) post-cure, offers an excellent balance of honeycomb peel strength and high service temperature capability.