Property changes of a graphite/epoxy composite exposed to nonionizing space parameters

Abstract

A study has been made of the changes in the mass, thickness and flexural properties of initially wet and dry specimens of graphite/epoxy composite material due to the equivalent of eight weeks of exposure to nonionizing space environmental parameters. The parameters were near and middle solar UV irradiance, high vacuum, and temperature. The flexural properties were not affected by the exposures. Changes occurred to the mass, dimensions, and surface morphology of the specimens which varied with individual and combined parameter exposures. The combined UV and elevated thermal environment had synergistic effects on the properties of the specimens.