Athermalization of EO test equipment optical structures using low-expansion graphite/epoxy composites

Philip I. Richardson

doi:10.1117/12.21527

1 October 1990 Athermalization of EO test equipment optical structures using low-expansion graphite/epoxy composites

Philip I. Richardson

Proceedings Volume 1303, Advances in Optical Structure Systems; (1990) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.21527
Event: 1990 Technical Symposium on Optics, Electro-Optics, and Sensors, 1990, Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract

The paper deals with the feasibility study and use of advanced composite materials in the Low Altitude Navigation and Targeting Infrared for Night (LANTIRN) program's field-test equipment. Emphasis is placed on thermal expansion in the optical test-equipment structure under elevated-temperature conditions. A design approach using a low-CTE graphite/epoxy composite for the optical bed is considered, and based on several constraints, four basic design approaches are evaluated: honeycomb, separated plate, machine solid, and thin solid. A prototype system is covered, and the test results of coupon samples of the composite baseplate material indicate that CTE is less than 1 ppm/deg C over a wide temperature range.

Citation Download Citation

Philip I. Richardson "Athermalization of EO test equipment optical structures using low-expansion graphite/epoxy composites", Proc. SPIE 1303, Advances in Optical Structure Systems, (1 October 1990); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.21527

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