High-Temperature-Capable Rigidizable Matrix Materials
Bernasconi, M.C.
MCB Consultants

Chemically Rigidized Expandable Structures (CRES) class represents a highly attractive approach for the realization of large-size items that can satisfy a wide range of space uses, for which have received attention for a fairly long time. More recently, the concept has found interest for terrestrial applications as well (Pronk & co-workers, 2003; van Dessel, Chini & Messac, 2003). A composite material draws several advantages from the high thermal resistance of its matrix, in addition to becoming suitable for use in hotter environments. Several rigidization systems require instead shielding to stay below RT. This work examines options for space rigidization leading to products with Tg above 160-200°C.

CRES designs exploiting in-space-curing of fibre-reinforced composites offer a large degree of flexibility for defining the structural concept, for tailoring physical properties, and potentially achieving the highest specific performances. For this purpose, many different matrices were formulated and studied during the last forty years, all of them based on organic polymers. Notwithstanding the achievement of some of these materials, one could argue that they suffer of drawbacks like limited heat resistance, toxicological restrictions, or limited access to resources.

This note aims at opening a discussion of alternative rigidification methods, including those using inorganic matrix materials. Apparently. inorganic matrix materials have received only a modest amount of attention in the past. However, glass-fibre-reinforced silicate glass seems to offer a good option for the realization of lunar habitats from in-situ resources, where the absence of light elements, including carbon, would discourage the recourse to organics. Hoffman (1965) discussed the potential forms obtainable from soluble silicates: this type of materials has a rather large industrial heritage, also finding current use on ground in civil engineering foam-in-place applications. The presentation will review the work on these unconventional matrix materials, discuss initial prepreg formulations, cure conditions, expected quality of resulting composites, and address the main issues that may hinder a space usage.

References

Marco C Bernasconi (2006). A Further Look at Rigidization Technologies: Thermal-Regime Considerations. Presentation PPH-06-058 at the 3rd European Workshop on Inflatable Space Structures, ESTEC (The Netherlands), October 10-12.

Steven Van Dessel, Abdol R Chini, & Achille Messac (2003). Feasibility of Rigidified Inflatable Structures for Housing. ASCE Journal of Architectural Engineering 9[01], 1-10.

Herbert I Hoffman (1965). Sodium Silicate as a Versatile Structural Material. Paper presented at the 2nd Aerospace Expandable Structures Conference, May, 289-303.

Arno CD Pronk, Rogier Houtman, Henno F Hanselaar, & Andrew Borgart (2003). A Fluid Pavillion by Rigidizing a Membrane. Paper at the Structural Membranes 2003 International Conference, Barcelona (Spain), June 20-July 3.

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