Development of zero coefficient of thermal expansion composite tubes for stable space structures

摘要

Abstract: Advanced composite materials are well suited for stable space structures due to their low Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE), high stiffness and light weight. For a given design application, composite hardware can be tailored for strength, stiffness, CTE, and Coefficient of Moisture Expansion (CME). Computer modeling and laminate testing of high modulus graphite/epoxy tubes were evaluated for compressive strength, stiffness, CTE, CME and microcracking. Thermal cycling and microcracking effects on CTE were evaluated. Thin graphite/epoxy plies exhibited reduced microcracking. A zero CTE thin wall tube design resulted from the development program. Recent work on low moisture absorption resin systems is also discussed.!6