Importance

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Abstract

Embodiments of the invention include a method by which particulate reinforcement is applied to dry fiber via a powder coating or a 'dusting' process and subsequently infused with a resin before or after forming a lay-up. Upon curing a composite lay-up, the particulate reinforcement may be randomly distributed through the laminate composite, forming a wear surface on one side. The application of dried bulk particulate may be applied to a fibrous sheet (or fiber reinforcement) such that the coupling of the particulate reinforcement to the fiber includes a mechanical and/or electrostatic process. Agitating the particulate reinforcement prior to being applied to the dry fiber may induce an electrostatic charge. Further, the particulate reinforcement may include raw microspheres of different types and styles, such as organic, inorganic, unexpanded, pre-expanded, etc.

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First Claim