From the onset of the space era, both organic-matrix and metal-matrix composites (MMCs), with high specific stiffness and near-zero CTE (coefficient of thermal expansion), have been developed for space applications. Of the organic matrix composites, graphite/epoxy has been used in space for truss elements, bus panels, antennas, wave guides, and parabolic reflectors in the past 30 years. MMCs possess high-temperature capability, high thermal conductivity, low CTE, and high specific stiffness and strength. This potential benefits generated optimism for MMCs for critical space system applications in the late 1980s. The purpose of this article is to detail the history, status, properties and opportunities of MMCs for space applications. This includes continuous-fiber reinforced MMC, such as P100/6061 Al, P100/AZ91C Mg and Boron/Al, as well as discontinuously reinforced aluminium-matrix composites, such as graphite/Al (GA 7-230), Al6092/SiC/17.5p and Al/SiC/63p.
Metal-matrix composites for space applications
Metallmatrix-Verbundwerkstoffe für die Anwendung in der Raumfahrt
JOM - The Journal of the Minerals, Metals and Materials Society ; 53 , 4 ; 14-17
2001
4 Seiten, 5 Bilder, 2 Tabellen, 10 Quellen
Aufsatz (Zeitschrift)
Englisch
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