Thin-ply Composites for Cryogenic Environments

Reduction of microcracking in composites using thin plies

Fiber reinforced polymer composites are an attractive material for lightweight space structures due to their specific stiffness and strength. These structures must in addition be able to withstand harsh temperature environments. This poses a challenges for composites, where mismatch in the thermal expansion of the various constituents is known to result in microcracking upon thermal cycling. We investigate the beneficial effects of thin-ply composites, with ply thicknesses below 70 microns, on microcracking at cryogenic temperatures. Further complexity is introduced through integration of functional elements into the material, for example conductive meshes for antennas and wires for actuation or sensing. Our research focuses on experimental and finite element investigations of the damage mechanisms in these structures.

Related publications

Sakovsky, M., & Mihaly, J. (2023). Thin ply composite materials with embedded functional elements for cryogenic environments. Materials Letters, 330, 133201.