Preimpregnated carbon fiber fabric
HEXPLY® Hexcel Composites

HexPly® prepregs are specially formulated resin matrix systems, that are reinforced with man-made fibers such as carbon, glass and aramid. When cured at elevated temperatures, the themoset resin undergoes a chemical reaction that transforms the prepreg into a solid structural material that is highly durable, temperature resistant, exceptionally stiff and lightweight.

Initially developed for the aerospace industry, HexPly® prepregs are now used in a wide range of applications - from golf clubs to satellite arrays, and from wind turbine rotor blades to life-saving Formula 1 monocoques. Hexcel has its own in-house supply of carbon fiber and world class weaving facilities for the development of optimum reinforcement technologies to complement the prepreg resin formulations.

Prepregs are supplied to customers in roll form, to be stored frozen and defrosted before use. When cured at elevated temperatures and under pressure, prepregs form molded components that are extremely strong and stiff. A broad range of formulated resins are used to impregnate the woven and unidirectional reinforcements.

Epoxy resins provide the highest levels of toughness and good environmental resistance. Phenolic resins provide fire-resistance and bismaleimide resins provide high temperature resistance. Cyanate esters provide excellent dimensional stability and are used primarily for satellite applications.