Thin carbon-fiber prepregs for dimensionally critical structures

Peter W. Manders; David R. Maas

doi:10.1117/12.21536

1 October 1990 Thin carbon-fiber prepregs for dimensionally critical structures

Peter W. Manders, David R. Maas

Proceedings Volume 1303, Advances in Optical Structure Systems; (1990) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.21536
Event: 1990 Technical Symposium on Optics, Electro-Optics, and Sensors, 1990, Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract

Carbon fiber/resin matrix composites are uniquely suited for the construction of light-weight dimensionally-critical structures on account of their high specific stiffness, and low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). Many spacecraft components, such as optical support structures, exploit these properties. Newer applications are focusing on the use of composites for thermal management, where the high specific thermal conductivity of pitch-based carbon fibers is an advantage in lightweight radiators and passive cooling devices for electronics modules. In both mechanical and thermal management applications, resistance to microcracking under thermal cycling is desirable, in order to preserve the initial dimensions and Cm. This paper describes the use of ultra-thin prepregs, with thicknesses down to 0.001 inch, that can reduce or eliminate microcracking under thermal cycling.

Citation Download Citation

Peter W. Manders and David R. Maas "Thin carbon-fiber prepregs for dimensionally critical structures", Proc. SPIE 1303, Advances in Optical Structure Systems, (1 October 1990); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.21536

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