Effects of thermal cycle and irradiation on mechanical proreties of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) and adhesives were experimentally investigated.
The IM-6/6376, toughened epoxy composite and T800/PMR-15, heat-resistant polyimide composite, and typical nine types of epoxy adhesives were selected as candidate sturctural materials for the future space applications.
These materials were subjected to up to 10 MGy irradiation and/or 3000 thermal cycle (-100 °C to 100 °C) which simulates the space environment. After these conditionings, specimens were mechanicaly tested over the temperature range of -100 °C to 100 °C.
The results were that the IM-6/6376 was not affected by irradiation and/or thermal cycle. this material showed essentially good overall durability performance in space environments. T-800/PMR-15 was not affected by irradiation this material showed good durability against radiation.
The other hands, the adhesives was greatly affected by irradiation and/or thermal cycle. Sensitivity of adhesives against space environment was indicated.