Space radiation effects on the thermo-mechanical behavior of graphite-epoxy composites

Journal Article · Sat Nov 01 04:00:00 EST 1986 · J. Compos. Mater.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1177/002199838602000605· OSTI ID:6804569

Milkovich, S M; Herakovich, C T; Sykes, G F

This investigation of composite material properties utilized T300/934 graphite-epoxy that was subjected to 1.0 MeV electron radiation for a total dose of 1.0 x 10 to the 10th rads at a rate of 5.0 x 10 to the 7th rads/hour, simulating a worst-case exposure equivalent to 30 years in space. Mechanical testing was performed on 4-ply unidirectional laminates over the temperature range of -250 F (116 K) to +250 F (394 K). In-plane elastic tensile and shear properties as well as strength were obtained. The results show that electron radiation degrades the epoxy matrix and produces products that volatilize at the temperatures considered. These degradation products plasticize the epoxy at elevated temperatures and embrittle it at low temperatures, thereby altering the mechanical properties of the composite. 12 references.

• Research Organization: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State Univ., Blacksburg; NASA, Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA
• OSTI ID: 6804569
• Journal Information: J. Compos. Mater.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Compos. Mater.; (United States) Vol. 20; ISSN JCOMB
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE
360605* -- Materials-- Radiation Effects
CARBON
COMPOSITE MATERIALS
ELASTICITY
ELEMENTAL MINERALS
ELEMENTS
EPOXIDES
GRAPHITE
MATERIALS
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
MINERALS
NONMETALS
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
ORGANIC OXYGEN COMPOUNDS
PHYSICAL RADIATION EFFECTS
POISSON RATIO
RADIATION EFFECTS
SHEAR PROPERTIES
TENSILE PROPERTIES
USES