Testing of domestically produced composites for the Irkut MC-21 is under way in Russia.
"Early-stage trials of advanced samples is already being conducted by [state nuclear energy corporation] Rosatom," says Irkut's general designer Oleg Demchenko. "It should be completed by year-end."
Russian carbonfibre-reinforced polymers are intended for the MC-21's wing spars, centre barrel, tail fin and fuselage components. Developing their technology is an important part of Russia's import substitution programme.
Efforts in this area went into high gear after the US government in January introduced embargoes on imports of advanced materials to Russian manufacturers of composite structures.
The move effectively banned AeroKompozit plant in Ulyanovsk and Obninsk-based company Technologiya from collaboration with US-based Hexcel and Japan's Toray Industries.
Demchenko says full testing of domestic substitutes for imported composites could take at least a year. "We're confident that its results will be positive," he adds.
Source: Cirium Dashboard
