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Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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NASA NTRS1980

Creep-rupture of polymer-matrix composites

An accelerated characterization method for resin matrix composites is reviewed. Methods for determining modulus and strength master curves are given. Creep rupture analytical models are discussed as applied to polymers and polymer matrix composites. Comparisons between creep rupture experiments and analytical models are presented. The time dependent creep rupture process in graphite epoxy laminates is examined as a function of temperature and stress level.

Brinson, H. F.↗

NASA NTRS1981

Creep rupture of polymer-matrix composites

The time-dependent creep-rupture process in graphite-epoxy laminates is examined as a function of temperature and stress level. Moisture effects are not considered. An accelerated characterization method of composite-laminate viscoelastic modulus and strength properties is reviewed. It is shown that lamina-modulus master curves can be obtained using a minimum of normally performed quality-control-type testing. Lamina-strength master curves, obtained by assuming a constant-strain-failure criterion, are presented along with experimental data, and reasonably good agreement is shown to exist between the two. Various phenomenological delayed failure models are reviewed and two (the modified rate equation and the Larson-Miller parameter method) are compared to creep-rupture data with poor results.

Brinson, H. F.↗

NASA NTRS1987

A micromechanics analysis of the influence of the interface on the performance of polymer-matrix composites

A specially developed two-dimensional finite element micromechanics analysis was used to predict the transverse tensile response of three different carbon fiber-reinforced, polymer matrix unidirectional composites. Experimental data were available for four different fiber sizings. The composites were tested both dry and moisture-conditioned, at room and elevated temperatures. Analytical/experimental correlations are presented and discussed.

Adams, Donald F.↗

NASA NTRS1986

A micromechanics analysis of the influence of the interface on the performance of polymer-matrix composites

Adams, Donald F.↗

NASA NTRS1991

Integrated mechanics for the passive damping of polymer-matrix composites and composite structures

Some recent developments on integrated damping mechanics for unidirectional composites, laminates, and composite structures are reviewed. Simplified damping micromechanics relate the damping of on-axis and off-axis composites to constituent properties, fiber volume ratio, fiber orientation, temperature, and moisture. Laminate and structural damping mechanics for thin composites are summarized. Discrete layer damping mechanics for thick laminates, including the effects of interlaminar shear damping, are developed and semianalytical predictions of modal damping in thick simply supported specialty composite plates are presented. Applications show the advantages of the unified mechanics, and illustrate the effect of fiber volume ratio, fiber orientation, structural geometry, and temperature on the damping. Additional damping properties for composite plates of various laminations, aspect ratios, fiber content, and temperature illustrate the merits and ranges of applicability of each theory (thin or thick laminates).

Saravanos, D. A.↗

NASA NTRS1992

Overview of NASA's advanced high temperature engine materials technology program

NASA's 'HITEMP' program has been charged with development of propulsion systems technologies for next-generation civil and military aircraft, stressing high-temperature/low-density composites. These encompass polymer-matrix composites for fans, ducts, and compressor cases, and intermetallic and metallic alloy matrix composites for applications in turbine disks, blades, and vanes, and ceramic matrix composites for combustors and turbines. An overview is presented of program concerns and achievements to date.

Ginty, Carol A.↗

NASA NTRS1990

Composites boost 21st-century aircraft engines

Research and development in light-weight, high-temperature composite materials for ultrahigh-bypass engines to be used in high-speed civil transport/rotocraft is presented. It is noted that the expected benefits to be attained by this R&D include weight reduction, lowered fuel consumption, and lower direct operating costs. A major effort underway in this area is the Advanced High Temperature Engine Materials Technology Program (HITEMP) of NASA, which focuses on providing revolutionary high-temperature composite materials: to 425 C (800 F) for polymer-matrix composites (PMCs), to 1250 C (2280 F) for metal-matrix/intermetallic-matrix composites (MMCs/IMCs), and to as high as 1650 C (3000 F) for ceramic-matrix composites (CMCs). Analytical modeling is being used to investigate the structural behavior of these advanced materials in six distinct areas: micromechanics, deformation and damage, fatigue, fracture, trade-off studies, and load definition. It is concluded that the development of advanced materials such as high-temperature composites is highly dependent on the availability of high-temperature fibers. The wide range of fiber characteristics needed will require the development of more than one fiber. In general, a candidate fiber should have low density, high strength, high stiffness, a CTE matching the matrix, chemical compatibility with the matrix, environmental stability and appropriate fiber diameter.

Stephens, Joseph R.↗

NASA NTRS1981

Compression testing of graphite/epoxy composite materials

Three methods for compression testing coupons of filament-reinforced polymer-matrix composite materials are evaluated, to identify the sensitivity of the test techniques to laminate, specimen, and test parameters. A 'wedge-grip' compression fixture, a face-supported compression fixture, and an end-loaded coupon fixture are described. Specimens of 12.5-, 25-, and 50-mm widths, 8-, 16-, and 24-ply thicknesses, and of various fiber orientations were used to test the 'wedge-grip' compression fixture and the face-supported fixture; the end-loaded coupon fixture was tested using 16-ply specimens. Compressive strain-stress, strength, and modulus data obtained with the fixtures and evaluations showing the effects of all the test parameters are presented. One of the conclusions asserts that the 'wedge-grip' compression fixture provides good stress-strain data to failure for unidirectional and quasi-isotropic laminates.

Clark, R. K.↗

NASA NTRS1992

ICAN/DAMP-integrated composite analyzer with damping analysis capabilities: User's manual

This manual describes the use of the computer code ICAN/DAMP (Integrated Composite Analyzer with Damping Analysis Capabilities) for the prediction of damping in polymer-matrix composites. The code is written in FORTRAN 77 and is a version of the ICAN (Integrated Composite ANalyzer) computer program. The code incorporates a new module for synthesizing the material damping from micromechanics to laminate level. Explicit micromechanics equations based on hysteretic damping are programmed relating the on-axis damping capacities to the fiber and matrix properties and fiber volume ratio. The damping capacities of unidirectional composites subjected to off-axis loading are synthesized from on-axis damping values. The hygrothermal effect on the damping performance of unidirectional composites caused by temperature and moisture variation is modeled along with the damping contributions from interfacial friction between broken fibers and matrix. The temperature rise is continuously vibrating composite plies and composite laminates is also estimated. The ICAN/DAMP user's manual provides descriptions of the damping analysis module's functions, structure, input requirements, output interpretation, and execution requirements. It only addresses the changes required to conduct the damping analysis and is used in conjunction with the 'Second Generation Integrated Composite Analyzer (ICAN) Computer Code' user's manual (NASA TP-3290).

Saravanos, Dimitrious A.↗

NASA NTRS1989

Ultrasonic Detection Of Transply Cracks In Composites

Nondestructive testing technique measures densities of transply cracks and used to monitor propagation of such damage in advanced polymer-matrix composite materials. Acousto-ultrasonic measuring apparatus, used to measure stress-wave factors (SWF's) of undamaged specimens and specimens that contained various numbers of transply cracks. Acousto-ultrasonic technique of value in examining damage to material from one surface only.

Bowles, Kenneth J.↗

NASA NTRS1992

Residual thermal stresses in composites for dimensionally stable spacecraft applications

An overview of NASA LaRC's research on thermal residual stresses and their effect on the dimensional stability of carbon fiber reinforced polymer-matrix composites is presented. The data show that thermal residual stresses can induce damage in polymer matrix composites and significantly affect the dimensional stability of these composites by causing permanent residual strains and changes in CTE. The magnitude of these stresses is primarily controlled by the laminate configuration and the applied temperature change. The damage caused by thermal residual stresses initiates at the fiber/matrix interface and micromechanics level analyses are needed to accurately predict it. An increased understanding of fiber/matrix interface interactions appears to be the best approach for improving a composite's resistance to thermally induced damage.

Bowles, David E.↗

NASA NTRS1992

Computational simulation of surface waviness in graphite/epoxy woven composites due to initial curing

Several models simulating plain weave, graphite/epoxy woven composites are presented, along with the effects that the simultaneous application of pressure and thermal loads have on their surfaces. The surface effects created by moisture absorption are also examined. The computational simulation consisted of using a two-dimensional finite element model for the composite. The properties of the finite element (FE) model are calculated by using the in-house composite mechanics computer code ICAN (Integrated Composite ANalyzer). MSC/NASTRAN is used for the FE analysis which yields the composite's top surface normalized displacements. These results demonstrate the importance of parameters such as the cure temperature (T sub o) and the resin content in the curing process of polymer-matrix composites. The modification of these parameters will help tailor the composite system to the desired requirements and applications.

Sanfeliz, Jose G.↗

NASA NTRS1992

Computational simulation of surface waviness in graphite/epoxy woven composites due to initial curing

Sanfeliz, Jose G.↗

NASA NTRS1981

The influence of environmental effects on the mechanical properties of graphite/epoxy laminates

The time dependent deformational and creep rupture processes in graphite/epoxy laminates are examined as a function of temperature and stress level. The role of accelerated characterization of design materials is discussed, and the use of a nonlinear time-temperature-stress-superposition principle in the determination of compliance master curves as a function of stress and temperature is considered. Creep rupture analytical models are discussed as applied to polymer-matrix composites, and the data is shown to be in general agreement with a logarithmic stress and temperature-dependent delayed fracture model. Comparisons between creep and rupture experiments and phenomenological models are presented.

Brinson, H. F.↗

NASA NTRS1984

A new dimension in space experimentation

Based on the Space Shuttle's ability to place the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) in space and later retrieve it, a new opportunity for scientific exploration in space is studied. The LDEF which is scheduled to be placed in orbit in 1984 and returned to earth after one year in space is described. It is a large unmanned facility 9 m in length and 4 m in diameter and flying at an 482 km orbit. It is pointed out that the LDEF allows investigators to have their experiments returned to them for in-depth analysis, eliminates the need for complex systems to transmit data to earth, does not require propulsion equipment, and increases the kinds of experiments that can be performed. A description is given for each of the five categories of the experiments provided by the LDEF: (1) evaluation of the impact of space environments on materials used for thermal coatings on polymer-matrix composites, on optics, and on quartz-crystal oscillators; (2) experiments with unique heat pipe systems having the goal to achieve temperature control of + or - 6 F; (3) evaluation of solar array materials; (4) growth of single crystals of lead sulfite, calcium carbonate, and synthetic metals; and (5) scientific experiments to determine the chemistry of micrometeoroids and to identify isotopes in interstellar gas and ultra-heavy cosmic ray nuclei. Finally, the project SEEDS (Space Exposed Experiment Developed for Students) which experiments with tomato seeds behavior in zero gravity is discussed.

Sandy, M. L.↗

NASA NTRS1988

Space environmental effects on polymeric materials

Polymer-matrix composites have considerable potential for use in the construction of orbiting structures such as the space station and space antennas because of their light weight, high strength, and low thermal expansion. However, they can suffer surface erosion by interaction with atomic oxygen in low-Earth orbit and degradation and/or embrittlement by electrons and ultraviolet radiation especially in geosynchronous orbit. Thus, a study of the effect of these environmental hazards on polymeric materials is an important step in the assessment of such materials for future use in space.

Kiefer, Richard L.↗

NASA NTRS1992

NASA's high-temperature engine materials program for civil aeronautics

The Advanced High-Temperature Engine Materials Technology Program is described in terms of its research initiatives and its goal of developing propulsion systems for civil aeronautics with low levels of noise, pollution, and fuel consumption. The program emphasizes the analysis and implementation of structural materials such as polymer-matrix composites in fans, casings, and engine-control systems. Also investigated in the program are intermetallic- and metal-matrix composites for uses in compressors and turbine disks as well as ceramic-matrix composites for extremely high-temperature applications such as turbine vanes.

Gray, Hugh R.↗

NASA NTRS1992

LDEF materials: An overview of the interim findings

The flight and retrieval of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) provided an opportunity for the study of the low-Earth orbit (LEO) environment and long-duration space environmental effect (SEE) on materials that are unparalleled in the history of the U.S. space program. The 5.8-year flight of LDEF greatly enhanced the potential value of materials data from LDEF to the international SEE community, compared to that of the original 1-year flight plan. The remarkable flight attitude stability of LDEF enables specific analyses of various individual and combined effects of LEO environmental parameters on identical materials of the same space vehicle. NASA recognized the potential by forming the LDEF Space Environmental Effects on Materials Special Investigation Group (MSIG) to address the greatly expanded materials and LEO space environment parameter analysis opportunities available in the LDEF structure, experiment trays, and corollary measurements, so that the combined value of all LDEF materials data to current and future space missions will be assessed and documented. This paper provides an overview of the interim LDEF materials findings of the Principal Investigators and the Materials Special Investigation Group. These revelations are based on observations of LEO environmental effects on materials made in-space during LDEF retrieval and during LDEF tray deintegration at the Kennedy Space Center, and on findings of approximately 1.5 years of laboratory analyses of LDEF materials by the LDEF materials scientists. These findings were extensively reviewed and discussed at the MSIG-sponsored LDEF Materials Workshop '91. The results are presented in a format which categorizes the revelations as 'clear findings' or 'confusing/unexplained findings' and resultant needs for new space materials developments and ground simulation testing/analytical modeling in seven categories: environmental parameters and data bases; LDEF contamination; thermal control coatings and protective treatments; polymers and films; polymer-matrix composites; metals, ceramics, and optical materials; and systems-related materials. General outlines of findings of the other LDEF Special Investigation Groups (Ionizing Radiation, Meteoroid and Debris, and Systems) are also included. The utilization of LDEF materials data for future low-earth orbit missions is also discussed, concentrating on Space Station Freedom. Some directions for continuing studies of LDEF materials are outlined. In general, the LDEF data is remarkable consistent; LDEF will provide a 'benchmark' for materials design data bases for satellites in low-Earth orbit. Some materials were identified to be encouragingly resistant to LEO SEE for 5.8-years; other 'space qualified' materials displayed significant environmental degradation. Molecular contamination was widespread; LDEF offers an unprecedented opportunity to provide a unified perspective of unmanned LEO spacecraft contamination mechanisms. New material development requirements for long-term LEO missions have been identified and current ground simulation testing methods/data for new, durable materials concepts can be validated with LDEF results. LDEF findings are already being integrated into the design of Space Station Freedom.

Stein, Bland A.↗