Composite Materials Project in Boy Scout Program
Composite Materials Merit Badge Part of Youth Development for Scouts
Aug 5, 2009
A Composite Materials Merit Badge was previewed at the Boy Scout National Jamboree in 2005 and introduced by the Boy Scouts in 2006. To some, that introduction was considered a milestone. Many viewed the event as an expansion of the scouting experience into the cutting edge technology of aerospace composites. At the same time others saw it as an obvious arrival of composite materials as mainstream in our daily lives. After all, composites can be found almost everywhere. In reality, both views seem to be reasonably accurate.
Boy Scouts make Composite Materials an Option in Youth Development
Youth development has long been a target of the Boy Scouts. The vehicle for achievement and development of a Scout is through advancement in rank and responsibility learned and earned via the merit badge system. One of the options that Scouts now have available is the Composite Materials Merit Badge.
Scouts may learn about composite materials such as:
- carbon or graphite fibers
- fiberglass
- cellulose
- aramid fibers such as Kevlar(R)
Composites manufacturing processes such as:
- filament winding
- resin transfer molding
- compression molding
- pultrusion
- extrusion
Composites products such as:
- golf club shafts
- tennis racquets
- composite decking
- fiber cement siding
- fiberglass roofing
- car parts
- aircraft components
Composite Materials Merit Badge is a Real Challenge for Scouts
The requirements for attaining the Composite Materials Merit Badge are quite extensive for young Scouts. There are six challenging categories that must be completed to earn the Merit Badge.
A Scout does not have to go it alone. There are official pamphlets and guides, as well as a counselor to assist Scouts in pursuit of a Composite Materials Merit Badge. Additionally, there are unofficial sources, such as meritbadge.org, which provide descriptions, worksheet downloads and an outline of requirements, such as those paraphrased here:
- Safety – define and describe a MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) and explain why its use is important in dealing with composite materials. Also, explain the precautions that should be taken in handling, storing and disposing of the materials used in making products from composites.
- What are composite materials? – answer this question, and include a history of how composites were developed. Also, discuss the similarities and differences between composite materials and other common materials, following an extensive list of attributes.
- How are composites made? – answer this question and discuss three different composite reinforcement materials and three different resin materials, outlining their characteristics and uses. Also, obtain the MSDS's and discuss the variety of categories for each material.
- Choose to visit a composites manufacturing or repair company, or research three web sites that are related to composites, and discuss what is learned with a counselor.
- Complete two projects using composite materials. One of these projects is required to be taken from the Composite Materials merit badge pamphlet, and one may be from the pamphlet or chosen elsewhere with a counselor's approval.
- Investigate three career opportunities in composites, choose one, and learn about the training, education and experience required. Explain to the counselor why this career opportunity may be of interest.
Whew! That is very challenging for a 12 or 13 year old, or for that matter, even for an adult with some experience!
Youth Development is Enhanced by Boy Scouts and Composite Materials Merit Badge
To see exactly how challenging the Composite Materials Merit Badge can be, check out the online merit badge workbook in pdf format at meritbadge.org. Completion of the requirements for the merit badge may provide insight into a variety of composites careers and potential opportunities.
Exposure to the materials, processes and safety requirements involved in composites manufacturing may broaden the horizons of many scouts. Youth development hinges on career type programs like the "trades" category of the Boy Scouts merit badge program, and particularly the Composite Materials Merit Badge.
A special thank you to Don Maxey for the introduction to meritbadge.org. Don is a long time volunteer in district training for the Boy Scouts.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
