Space radiation effects on dimensional stability of compositesThe long-term space environment at GEO, consisting of high doses (less than 10 to the 9th rads) of electron radiation and large cyclic (-157 C to +121 C) temperature changes, can significantly affect the dimensional stability of polymer matrix composites. Radiation alters the chemical structure of epoxies by both chain scission and cross-linking. In this paper, an attempt is made to summarize and examine the effects of electron radiation damage on dimensional stability of composites. Microcracking measurements were made for standard 177 C cure Gr/Ep, rubber toughened Gr/Ep, Gr/Polymide, and GR/Thermoplastic composites. Results show that radiation damage can significantly change matrix-dependent mechanical and physical properties of composites, with data explaining how these changes can affect their dimensional stability.
Document ID
19890063739
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Tenney, Darrel R. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Bowles, David E. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)