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Environmental effects on mechanical properties of a Kevlar 49/epoxy composite

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:6506963

The purpose of this program was to determine the mechanical properties of a Kevlar 49/epoxy composite in a simulated flywheel service environment. The composite was filament-wound using an epoxy formulated at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). The temperature and vacuum chosen were 75/sup 0/C and approx. 7 x 10/sup -3/ torr, respectively. Specimens were preconditioned in the test environment for periods of 1 to 5 months before mechanical tests. The simulated service environment of 75/sup 0/C in vacuum was found to have little effect on static and fatigue properties. While the elevated temperature of 75/sup 0/C was not deleterious, the lack of air could be beneficial because it eliminates the possibility of oxidation. Thus, the elevated temperature of 75/sup 0/C is no deterrent to the application of the present Kevlar 49/epoxy in flywheels.

Research Organization:
Washington Univ., St. Louis, MO (USA). Materials Research Lab.
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-48
OSTI ID:
6506963
Report Number(s):
UCRL-15330
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English