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At least 487 records · Page 27

Material and structural studies of metal and polymer matrix composites

Fiber-reinforced composites and design analysis methods for these materials are being developed because of the vast potential of composites for decreasing weight and/or increasing use temperature capability in aerospace systems. These composites have potential for use in airbreathing engine components as well as aeronautical and space vehicle structures. Refractory wire-superalloy composites for use up to 2200 F or more and metal-matrix composites for lower temperature applications such as aerospace structures and turbojet fan and compressor blades are under investigation and are discussed. The development of a number of resin systems, including the polyimides and polyphenylquinoxalines, is described and their potential for use at temperatures approaching 315 C (600 F) is indicated. Various molecular modifications that improve processability and/or increase thermal and oxidative resistance of the resins are also described. Structural analysis methods are discussed for determining the stresses and deformations in complex composite systems. Consideration is also given to residual stresses resulting from the curing process and to the foreign object damage problem in fan blade applications.

Signorelli, R. A.↗

High Temperature Mechanical Characterization of Ceramic Matrix Composites

A high temperature mechanical characterization laboratory has been assembled at NASA Lewis Research Center. One contribution of this work is to test ceramic matrix composite specimens in tension in environmental extremes. Two high temperature tensile testing systems were assembled. The systems were assembled based on the performance and experience of other laboratories and meeting projected service conditions for the materials in question. The systems use frames with an electric actuator and a center screw. A PC based data acquisition and analysis system is used to collect and analyze the data. Mechanical extensometers are used to measure specimen strain. Thermocouples, placed near the specimen, are used to measure the specimen gage section temperature. The system for testing in air has a resistance element furnace with molybdenum disilicide elements and pneumatic grips with water cooling attached to hydraulic alignment devices. The system for testing in an inert gas has a graphite resistance element furnace in a chamber with rigidly mounted, water cooled, hydraulically actuated grips. Unidirectional SiC fiber reinforced reaction bonded Si3N4 and triaxially woven, two dimensional, SiC fiber reinforced enhanced SiC composites were tested in unidirectional tension. Theories for predicting the Young's modulus, modulus near the ultimate strength, first matrix cracking stress, and ultimate strength were applied and evaluated for suitability in predicting the mechanical behavior of SiC/RBSN and enhanced SiC/SiC composites. The SiC/RBSN composite exhibited pseudo tough behavior (increased area under the stress/strain curve) from 22 C to 1500 C. The rule of mixtures provides a good estimate of the Young's modulus of the SiC/RBSN composite using the constituent properties from room temperature to 1440 C for short term static tensile tests in air or nitrogen. The rule of mixtures significantly overestimates the secondary modulus near the ultimate strength. The ACK theory provides the best approximation of the first matrix cracking stress when residual stresses are ignored. The theory of Cao and Thouless, based on Weibull statistics, gave the best prediction for the composite ultimate strength. The enhanced SiC/SiC composite exhibited nonlinear stress/strain behavior from 24 C to 1370 C in air with increased ultimate strain when compared to monolithic SiC. The theory of Yang and Chou with the assumption of a frictional fiber/matrix interface provided the best estimate of the Young's modulus. The theory of Cao and Thouless gave the best estimate for the ultimate strength.

Gyekenyesi, John Z.↗

A thermally modified polymer matrix composite material with structural integrity to 371 C

The potential for utilizing surface coatings to inhibit the thermal oxidation of polymer matrix composites was studied. Isothermal, inert gas exposures of graphite/PMR-15 composites indicated that after an initial loss of weight, no significant amounts of thermal degradation products are given off during high temperature exposures in the absence of oxygen. As long as a coating remains effective, the composite material should remain stable. It was also found that the glass transition temperature T sub g of the matrix resin could be increased to values in excess of 400 C. This resulted in measured short beam shear strengths of 75.9 MPa (11 Ksi), flexural strengths of 1172 MPa (170 Ksi) and flexural moduli of 141 GPa (20.5 Msi) for the material at a test temperature of 371 C. The treatment that was used caused a decrease in the PMR-15 resin density from 1.31 to 1.29 gm/cc. It was concluded that state-of-the-art composites, protected by oxygen-impervious coatings, can be used as materials of construction with structural integrity to at least 371 C and possibly above.

Bowles, Kenneth J.↗

A thermally modified polymer matrix composite material with structural integrity to 371 C

The potential for utilizing surface coatings to inhibit the thermal oxidation of polymer matrix composites was studied. Isothermal, inert gas exposures of graphite/PMR-15 composites indicated that after an initial loss of weight, no significant amounts of thermal degradation products are given off during high temperature exposures in the absence of oxygen. As long as a coating remains effective, the composite material should remain stable. It was also found that the glass transition temperature T sub g of the matrix resin could be increased to values in excess of 400 C. This resulted in measured short beam shear strengths of 75.9 MPa (11 Ksi), flexural strengths of 1172 MPa (170 Ksi) and flexural moduli of 141 GPa (20.5 Msi) for the material at a test temperature of 371 C. The treatment that was used caused a decrease in the PMR-15 resin density from 1.31 to 1.29 gm/cc. It was concluded that state-of-the-art composites, protected by oxygen-impervious coatings, can be used as materials of construction with structural integrity to at least 371 C and possibly above.

Bowles, Kenneth J.↗

Computational Simulation of the High Strain Rate Tensile Response of Polymer Matrix Composites

A research program is underway to develop strain rate dependent deformation and failure models for the analysis of polymer matrix composites subject to high strain rate impact loads. Under these types of loading conditions, the material response can be highly strain rate dependent and nonlinear. State variable constitutive equations based on a viscoplasticity approach have been developed to model the deformation of the polymer matrix. The constitutive equations are then combined with a mechanics of materials based micromechanics model which utilizes fiber substructuring to predict the effective mechanical and thermal response of the composite. To verify the analytical model, tensile stress-strain curves are predicted for a representative composite over strain rates ranging from around 1 x 10(exp -5)/sec to approximately 400/sec. The analytical predictions compare favorably to experimentally obtained values both qualitatively and quantitatively. Effective elastic and thermal constants are predicted for another composite, and compared to finite element results.

Goldberg, Robert K.↗

A methodology to predict damage initiation, damage growth and residual strength in titanium matrix composites

In this research, a methodology to predict damage initiation, damage growth, fatigue life, and residual strength in titanium matrix composites (TMC) is outlined. Emphasis was placed on micromechanics-based engineering approaches. Damage initiation was predicted using a local effective strain approach. A finite element analysis verified the prevailing assumptions made in the formulation of this model. Damage growth, namely, fiber-bridged matrix crack growth, was evaluated using a fiber bridging (FB) model which accounts for thermal residual stresses. This model combines continuum fracture mechanics and micromechanics analyses yielding stress-intensity factor solutions for fiber-bridged matrix cracks. It is assumed in the FB model that fibers in the wake of the matrix crack are idealized as a closure pressure, and an unknown constant frictional shear stress is assumed to act along the debond length of the bridging fibers. This frictional shear stress was used as a curve fitting parameter to the available experimental data. Fatigue life and post-fatigue residual strength were predicted based on the axial stress in the first intact 0 degree fiber calculated using the FB model and a three-dimensional finite element analysis.

Bakuckas, J. G., Jr.↗

Hoop Tensile Properties of Ceramic Matrix Composite Cylinders

Tensile stress-strain properties in the hoop direction were obtained for 100-mm diameter SiC/SiC ceramic matrix composite cylinders using ring specimens machined form the cylinder ends. The cylinders were fabricated from 2D balanced SiC fabric with several material variants, including wall thickness (6,8, and 12 plies), SiC fiber type (Sylramic, Sylramic-iBN, Hi-Nicalon, and Hi-Nicalon S), fiber sizing type, and matrix type (full CVI SiC, and partial CVI SiC plus slurry cast + melt-infiltrated SiC-Si). Fiber ply splices existed in all the hoops. Tensile hoop measurements are made at room temperature and 1200 C using hydrostatic ring test facilities. The failure mode of the hoops, determined through microstructural examination, is presented. The hoop properties are compared with in-plane data measured on flat panels using same material variants, but containing no splices.

Verrilli, Michael J.↗

A simple laminate theory using the orthotropic viscoplasticity theory based on overstress. I - In-plane stress-strain relationships for metal matrix composites

A macromechanics analysis is presented for the in-plane, anisotropic time-dependent behavior of metal matrix laminates. The small deformation, orthotropic viscoplasticity theory based on overstress represents lamina behavior in a modified simple laminate theory. Material functions and constants can be identified in principle from experiments with laminae. Orthotropic invariants can be repositories for tension-compression asymmetry and for linear elasticity in one direction while the other directions behave in a viscoplastic manner. Computer programs are generated and tested for either unidirectional or symmetric laminates under in-plane loading. Correlations with the experimental results on metal matrix composites are presented.

Krempl, Erhard↗

Thermal-vacuum effects on polymer matrix composite materials

Results are presented on the thermal-vacuum response of a variety of fiber reinforced polymers matrix composites that comprised the UTIAS experiment on the LDEF satellite. Theoretical temperature-time predictions for this experiment are in excellent agreement with test data. Results also show quite clearly the effect of outgassing in the dimensional changes of these materials and the corresponding coefficients of thermal expansion. Finally, comparison with ground-based simulation tests are presented as well. Use of these data for design purposes are also given.

Tennyson, R. C.↗

Atomic oxygen erosion of polymer matrix composites

Results are presented on atomic oxygen erosion of circular tubes and flat plates fabricated from different epoxy matrix composites containing, boron and Kevlar fiber reinforcements. The UTIAS experiment was located at station D-12, at 90 deg to the LDEF leading edge which was yawed about approximately 8 to 10 deg relative to the velocity vector. This resulted in enhanced atomic oxygen exposure at D-12, providing a total fluence of about 4 x 10(exp 20) atoms/sq cm. Thickness loss measurements were obtained for both flat plates and cylindrical tubes. The effect of reflected atomic oxygen on erosion yield and surface morphology on back surfaces (not directly exposed to AO) are graphically demonstrated. Erosion yields are also compared with other space flight data for similar materials, and ground-based tests in the UTIAS AO simulator. The effect of angle of incidence on surface morphology, erosion profiles and thickness losses are presented and the results correlated with simulator tests as well.

Tennyson, R. C.↗

Pressurized Shell Molds For Metal-Matrix Composites

Balanced-pressure molds used to make parts in complex shapes from fiber-reinforced metal-matrix composite materials. In single step, molding process makes parts in nearly final shapes; only minor finishing needed. Because molding pressure same on inside and outside, mold does not have to be especially strong and can be made of cheap, nonstructural material like glass or graphite. Fibers do not have to be cut to conform to molds. Method produces parts with high content of continuous fibers. Parts stiff but light in weight, and coefficients of thermal expansion adjusted. Parts resistant to mechanical and thermal fatigue superior to similar parts made by prior fabrication methods.

Kashalikar, Uday K.↗

Particulate Titanium Matrix Composites Tested-Show Promise for Space Propulsion Applications

New manufacturing technologies can now produce uniformly distributed particle strengthened titanium matrix composites (TMCs) at lower cost than many types of continuous-fiber composites. The innovative process results in near-final-shape components having a material stiffness up to 26-percent greater than that of components made with conventional titanium materials. This benefit is achieved with no significant increase in the weight of the component. The improved mechanical performance and low-cost manufacturing capability motivated a review of particulate-reinforced metal composite technology as a way to lower the cost and weight of space-access propulsion systems. Focusing on the elevated-temperature properties of titanium alloy Ti-6Al-4V as the matrix material, researchers at the NASA Glenn Research Center conducted experiments to verify the improved performance of the alloy containing 10 wt% of ceramic titanium carbide (TiC) particles. The appropriate blend of metal and ceramic powder underwent a series of cold and hot isostatic pressing procedures to yield bar stock. A set of round dogbone specimens was manufactured from a small sample of the bars. The TMC material proved to have good machinability at this particle concentration as there was no difficulty in producing high-quality specimens.

Thesken, John C.↗

Auger analysis of a fiber/matrix interface in a ceramic matrix composite

Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) depth profiling was used to characterize the fiber/matrix interface of an SiC fiber, reaction bonded Si3N4 matrix composite. Depth profiles of the as received double coated fiber revealed concentration oscillations which disappeared after annealing the fiber in the environment used to fabricate the composite. After the composite was fractured, the Auger depth profiles showed that failure occurred in neither the Beta-SiC fiber body nor in the Si3N4 matrix but, concurrently, at the fiber coating/matrix interface and within the fiber coating itself.

Honecy, Frank S.↗

Auger analysis of a fiber/matrix interface in a ceramic matrix composite

Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) depth profiling was used to characterize the fiber/matrix interface of an SiC fiber, reaction bonded Si3N4 matrix composite. Depth profiles of the as received double coated fiber revealed concentration oscillations which disappeared after annealing the fiber in the environment used to fabricate the composite. After the composite was fractured, the Auger depth profiles showed that failure occurred in neither the Beta-SiC fiber body nor in the Si3N4 matrix but, concurrently, at the fiber coating/matrix interface and within the fiber coating itself.

Honecy, Frank S.↗

Incorporation of Mean Stress Effects into the Micromechanical Analysis of the High Strain Rate Response of Polymer Matrix Composites

The results presented here are part of an ongoing research program, to develop strain rate dependent deformation and failure models for the analysis of polymer matrix composites subject to high strain rate impact loads. A micromechanics approach is employed in this work, in which state variable constitutive equations originally developed for metals have been modified to model the deformation of the polymer matrix, and a strength of materials based micromechanics method is used to predict the effective response of the composite. In the analysis of the inelastic deformation of the polymer matrix, the definitions of the effective stress and effective inelastic strain have been modified in order to account for the effect of hydrostatic stresses, which are significant in polymers. Two representative polymers, a toughened epoxy and a brittle epoxy, are characterized through the use of data from tensile and shear tests across a variety of strain rates. Results computed by using the developed constitutive equations correlate well with data generated via experiments. The procedure used to incorporate the constitutive equations within a micromechanics method is presented, and sample calculations of the deformation response of a composite for various fiber orientations and strain rates are discussed.

Goldberg, Robert K.↗

Compact, Lightweight, Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC) Based Acoustic Liners for Reducing Subsonic Jet Aircraft Engine Noise

Recent developments have reduced fan and jet noise contributions to overall subsonic aircraft jet-engine noise. Now, aircraft designers are turning their attention toward reducing engine core noise. The NASA Glenn Research Center and NASA Langley Research Center have teamed to investigate the development of a compact, lightweight acoustic liner based on oxide/oxide ceramic matrix composite (CMC) materials. The NASA team has built upon an existing oxide/oxide CMC sandwich structure concept that provides monotonal noise reduction. Oxide/oxide composites have good high temperature strength and oxidation resistance, which could allow them to perform as core liners at temperatures up to 1000C (1832F), and even higher depending on the selection of the composite constituents. NASA has initiated the evaluation of CMC-based liners that use cells of different lengths (variable-depth channels) or effective lengths to achieve broadband noise reduction. Reducing the overall liner thickness is also a major goal, to minimize the volume occupied by the liner. As a first step toward demonstrating the feasibility of our concepts, an oxide/oxide CMC acoustic testing article with different channel lengths was tested. Our approach, summary of test results, current status, and goals for the future are reported.

testing↗

Local-global analysis of crack growth in continuously reinfoced ceramic matrix composites

This paper describes the development of a mathematical model for predicting the strength and micromechanical failure characteristics of continuously reinforced ceramic matrix composites. The local-global analysis models the vicinity of a propagating crack tip as a local heterogeneous region (LHR) consisting of spring-like representation of the matrix, fibers and interfaces. Parametric studies are conducted to investigate the effects of LHR size, component properties, and interface conditions on the strength and sequence of the failure processes in the unidirectional composite system.

Ballarini, Roberto↗

Shear testing of fiber reinforced metal matrix composites

This paper outlines the elements of a combined experimental/analytical methodology for accurate shear characterization of unidirectional composites in the linear and nonlinear range, with particular attention devoted to metal matrix composites. It is illustrated that consistent results can be obtained for a large class of composites from two commonly employed shear test methods currently in use by composites researchers when the influence of various factors that affect the determination of the actual shear response is properly analyzed. These factors include the effects of material anisotropy, specimen geometry, manner of load introduction, and test fixture design on the stress and deformation fields in the test section of off-axis and Iosipescu specimens. Common errors associated with the measurement of deformation fields and calculation of stress fields are discussed and quantified. Particular problems in the determination of the shear response of unidirectional boron/aluminum using the Iosipescu test are illustrated and discussed.

Pindera, Marek-Jerzy↗