M0003-10: LDEF advanced composites experiment

The Advanced Composites Experiment includes nearly 500 samples of metal matrix, organic matrix, and glass matrix composites that were flown on the leading and trailing edges of the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF). The experiment is a cooperative effort with participation by several aerospace companies. This paper is a review of the preliminary observations and test results. Estimated recession rates from atomic oxygen exposure for organic matrix composites are reported. Preliminary scanning electron microscopy observations for organic and metal matrix composites and microstructural analyses for metal matrix composites are presented.