Comparison of polyester, film-yarn composite, balloon materials subjected to shear and biaxial loading

A series of candidate materials for use in large balloons was tested and their tensile and shear strength capabilities were compared. The tests were done in a cold box at -68 C (-90 F). Some of these materials were fabricated on a special machine called the flying thread loom. This machine laminates various patterns of polyester yarn to a thin polyester film. The results show that the shear strength of materials changes with the angle selected for the transverse yarns, and substantial increases in biaxial load carrying capabilities, compared to materials formerly used, are possible. The loom capabilities and the test methods are discussed.