Patent ID: 10087519

Abstract:
A method of making a preform and preform formed by the method. The method includes providing a first pre-preg ply including at least a first fiber and a first resin. The method also includes providing a second pre-preg ply including at least a second fiber and a second resin over at least a portion of the first pre-preg ply. Heat or electromagnetic radiation is used to at least partially cure the first and second resins to form a cured preform. Heat is applied to pyrolyze at least a portion of the resin of the cured preform to form a pyrolyzed preform. A mechanical stimulus including at least one of controlled drying, local explosions, or ultrasonic energy is applied to the pyrolyzed preform. The mechanically treated pyrolyzed preform is subsequently densified by melt infiltration to form a densified preform.