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At least 109 records · Page 6

Ultrasonic characterization of changes in viscoelastic properties of epoxy during cure

A technique for using the longitudinal velocity (LV) of an ultrasonic wave to monitor the extent of cross linking (CL) during the cure of thermosetting resins is described. The method was developed by monitoring the rate of change in LV during the cure of a bisphenol-A epoxy resin with an amine adduct. The experiment included variations in the temperature and stoichiometry in order to express the rate of change in terms of the reaction kinetics. The pulse-echo method was used with a single transducer operating at 20 MHz. Numerical models were defined to account for the acoustic response of a single layer, the attenuation and the reflection coefficient. A linear relationship was observed between the inverse of the temperature and the log of the rate of change in the velocity, supporting the theory that the velocity could be used to monitor the extent of the cross-linking reaction. An activation energy of 11.9 kcal/mole was calculated for the mixture being investigated.

Winfree, W. P.↗

Tough composite materials: Recent developments

The present volume broadly considers topics in composite fracture toughness and impact behavior characterization, composite system constituent properties and their interrelationships, and matrix systems' synthesis and characterization. Attention is given to the characterization of interlaminar crack growth in composites by means of the double cantilever beam specimen, the characterization of delamination resistance in toughened resin composites, the effect of impact damage and open holes on the compressive strength of tough resin/high strain fiber laminates, the effect of matrix and fiber properties on compression failure mechanisms and impact resistance, the relation of toughened neat resin properties to advanced composite mechanical properties, and constituent and composite properties' relationships in thermosetting matrices. Also treated are the effect of cross-link density on the toughening mechanism of elastomer-modified epoxies, the chemistry of fiber/resin interfaces, novel carbon fibers and their properties, the development of a heterogeneous laminating resin, solvent-resistant thermoplastics, NASA Lewis research in advanced composites, and opportunities for the application of composites in commercial aircraft transport structures.

Vosteen, L. F.↗

Semi-Interpenetrating Polymer Networks

Desirable qualities achieved by "networking" aromatic and addition polyimides. Novel semi-interpenetrating network (semi-ipn) prepared from two types of polyimides. Semi-ipn results when linear polymer synthesized in presence of cross-linked polymer or vice-versa. Semi-ipn attains certain properties better than those of either polymer alone.

St. Clair, T. L.↗

Biochemical changes in bone in a model of weightlessness

The amounts of nonmineralized and mineralized collagen in bone from control, immobilized, and immobilized reambulated monkeys were examined. In order to understand structure function relationships of bone collagen and the reponse of a variety of conditions on control of the three dimensional structure of the collagen fibril, the stereochemistry of the cross-linking reactions as well as the stereospecific packing of the collagen molecules were studied.

Mechanic, Gerald L.↗

Acrolein Microspheres Are Bonded To Large-Area Substrates

Reactive cross-linked microspheres produced under influence of ionizing radiation in aqueous solutions of unsaturated aldehydes, such as acrolein, with sodium dodecyl sulfate. Diameters of spheres depend on concentrations of ingredients. If polystyrene, polymethylmethacrylate, or polypropylene object immersed in solution during irradiation, microspheres become attached to surface. Resulting modified surface has grainy coating with reactivity similar to free microspheres. Aldehyde-substituted-functional microspheres react under mild conditions with number of organic reagents and with most proteins. Microsphere-coated macrospheres or films used to immobilize high concentrations of proteins, enzymes, hormones, viruses, cells, and large number of organic compounds. Applications include separation techniques, clinical diagnostic tests, catalytic processes, and battery separators.

Rembaum, Alan↗

Radiation and temperature effects on the time-dependent response of T300/934 graphite/epoxy

A time-dependent characterization study was performed on T300/934 graphite/epoxy in a simulated space environment. Creep tests on irradiated and nonirradiated graphite/epoxy and bulk resin specimens were carried out at temperatures of 72 and 250 F. Irradiated specimens were exposed to dosages of penetrating electron radiation equal to 30 years exposure at GEO-synchronous orbit. Radiation was shown to have little effect on the creep response of both the composite and bulk resin specimens at 72 F while radiation had a significant effect at 250 F. A healing process was shown to be present in the irradiated specimens where broken bonds in the epoxy due to radiation recombined over time to form cross-links in the 934 resin structure. An analytical micromechanical model was also developed to predict the viscoelastic response of fiber reinforced composite materials. The model was shown to correlate well with experimental results for linearly viscoelastic materials with relatively small creep strains.

Yancey, Robert N.↗

Synthesis, curing and physical behavior of maleimide terminated poly(arylene ethers)

This paper describes the synthesis of maleimide terminated poly(ether ketones) using the solution imidization process described by Summers et al. (1987). Amorphous poly(arylene ether ketones), as well as poly(arylene ether sulfones, of controlled end group functionalities and molecular weights were synthesized by nucleophilic step polymerization of bisphehol-A phenolates with activated halides, such as 4,4'-difluorobenzophenone, and 'monofunctional' end cappers such as m-aminophenol. The thermal properties of the system included glass transition temperature (Tg) values of 160-170 C, with modulus above Tg proportional to cross-link density, which in turn was reciprocally related to oligomer molecular weight. The measurements of the fracture toughness values showed the materials to be very ductile, with the toughness increasing with oligomer molecular weight.

Lyle, G. D.↗

Acetylene-Terminated Aspartimides And Derived Resins

New polymers and derived blends exhibit improved processability and properties. New toughened epoxies exhibit excellent properties, but use temperatures limited. Bismaleimide resins are some base materials formulated to develop materials having moderate use temperatures. Work conducted on use of acetylenic (ethynyl) group to cross-link and extend chains of oligomers and polymers to obtain materials to perform at higher temperatures. Extended to include acetylene-terminated aspartimides (ATA's).

Hergenrother, Paul M.↗

Degradation and crosslinking of perfluoroalkyl polyethers under X-ray irradiation in ultrahigh vacuum

Degradation of three types of commercially available perfluoroalkyl polyethers (PFPE)-Demnum S200, Fomblin Z25, and Krytox 16256-by X-ray irradiation was studied by using X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS) and a mass spectrometer under ultra-high-vacuum conditions. The carbons in the polymers were characterized by chemical shifts of Cls binding energies. Gaseous products containing COF2 and low-molecular-weight fluorocarbons were formed. From Fomblin Z25, which has acetal linkages (-OCF2O-), a large quantity of COF2 gas was evolved. Liquid products became tacky after a long irradiation time, and some did not dissolve in Freon. High-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) showed that molecular weight distribution became broader and that higher molecular weight polymers were formed from Demnum and Krytox. We concluded from these results that degradation and cross-linking took place simultaneously. Demnum crosslinked more easily than the other fluids. The time dependence of both XPS spectra of Cls and mass spectra showed that C-O-bonded carbons in PFPE'S were removed faster than other carbons. There was no substrate effect on the degradation reaction because the first-order rate constants calculated from the change of gaseous products were similar when stainless steel (440C) and gold-coated surfaces were used. Metal fluorides were formed on stainless steel during the reaction. A mechanism for the degradation of PFPE'S is discussed on the basis of their molecular structures.

Mori, Shigeyuki↗

Structural materials for space applications

The long-term performance of structural materials in the space environment is a key research activity within NASA. The primary concerns for materials in low Earth orbit (LEO) are atomic oxygen erosion and space debris impact. Atomic oxygen studies have included both laboratory exposures in atomic oxygen facilities and flight exposures using the Shuttle. Characterization of atomic oxygen interaction with materials has included surface recession rates, residual mechanical properties, optical property measurements, and surface analyses to establish chemical changes. The Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) is scheduled to be retrieved in 1989 and is expected to provide a wealth of data on atomic oxygen erosion in space. Hypervelocity impact studies have been conducted to establish damage mechanisms and changes in mechanical properties. Samples from LDEF will be analyzed to determine the severity of space debris impact on coatings, films, and composites. Spacecraft placed in geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO) will be subjected to high doses of ionizing radiation which for long term exposures will exceed the damage threshold of many polymeric materials. Radiation interaction with polymers can result in chain scission and/or cross-linking. The formation of low molecular weight products in the epoxy plasticize the matrix at elevated temperatures and embrittle the matrix at low temperatures. This affects both the matrix-dominated mechanical properties and the dimensional stability of the composite. Embrittlement of the matrix at low temperatures results in enhanced matrix microcracking during thermal cycling. Matrix microcracking changes the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of composite laminates and produces permanent length changes. Residual stress calculations were performed to estimate the conditions necessary for microcrack development in unirradiated and irradiated composites. The effects of UV and electron exposure on the optical properties of transparent polymer films were also examined to establish the optimum chemical structure for good radiation resistance. Thoughts on approaches to establishing accelerated testing procedures are discussed.

Tenney, Darrel R.↗

Space radiation effects on dimensional stability of composites

The long-term space environment at GEO, consisting of high doses (less than 10 to the 9th rads) of electron radiation and large cyclic (-157 C to +121 C) temperature changes, can significantly affect the dimensional stability of polymer matrix composites. Radiation alters the chemical structure of epoxies by both chain scission and cross-linking. In this paper, an attempt is made to summarize and examine the effects of electron radiation damage on dimensional stability of composites. Microcracking measurements were made for standard 177 C cure Gr/Ep, rubber toughened Gr/Ep, Gr/Polymide, and GR/Thermoplastic composites. Results show that radiation damage can significantly change matrix-dependent mechanical and physical properties of composites, with data explaining how these changes can affect their dimensional stability.

Tenney, Darrel R.↗

Conceptual definition of a high voltage power supply test facility

NASA Lewis Research Center is presently developing a 60 GHz traveling wave tube for satellite cross-link communications. The operating voltage for this new tube is - 20 kV. There is concern about the high voltage insulation system and NASA is planning a space station high voltage experiment that will demonstrate both the 60 GHz communications and high voltage electronics technology. The experiment interfaces, requirements, conceptual design, technology issues and safety issues are determined. A block diagram of the high voltage power supply test facility was generated. It includes the high voltage power supply, the 60 GHz traveling wave tube, the communications package, the antenna package, a high voltage diagnostics package and a command and data processor system. The interfaces with the space station and the attached payload accommodations equipment were determined. A brief description of the different subsystems and a discussion of the technology development needs are presented.

Biess, John J.↗

Tissue simulating gel for medical research

A tissue simulating gel and a method for preparing the tissue simulating gel are disclosed. The tissue simulating gel is prepared by a process using water, gelatin, ethylene gylcol, and a cross-linking agent. In order to closely approximate the characteristics of the type of tissue being simulated, other material has been added to change the electrical, sound conducting, and wave scattering properties of the tissue simulating gel. The result of the entire process is a formulation that will not melt at the elevated temperatures involved in hyperthermia medical research. Furthermore, the tissue simulating gel will not support mold or bacterial growth, is of a sufficient mechanical strength to maintain a desired shape without a supporting shell, and is non-hardening and non-drying. Substances were injected into the tissue simulating gel prior to the setting-up thereof just as they could be injected into actual tissue, and the tissue simulating gel is translucent so as to permit visual inspection of its interior. A polyurethane spray often used for coating circuit boards can be applied to the surface of the tissue simulating gel to give a texture similar to human skin, making the tissue simulating gel easier to handle and contributing to its longevity.

Companion, John A.↗

Effects of 70-keV electrons on two polyarylene ether ketones

Films prepared from two polyarylene ether ketones with the repeat units -PhC(O)PhC(O)-PhOPhXPhO- where X = C(CH3)2 or CH2 and Ph = C6H4, were bombarded with 70-keV electrons. The effects of irradiation were determined from the fraction of gel formed; the intrinsic viscosities, gel permeation chromatography, and NMR spectroscopy of the soluble portion of the irradiated films; and the changes in the IR spectra of the materials. In a Charlesby-Pinner analysis of the gel fractions of the polyarylene ether ketone with the isopropylidene group, the numbers of scission and cross-linking events per 100 eV (9649 kJ/mol) absorbed were found to be small with G(S) = 0.002 and G(X) = 0.009, respectively.

Kingsbury, Kevin B.↗

Polyvinyl pyridine microspheres

Microspheres are produced by cobalt gamma radiation initiated polymerization of a dilute aqueous vinyl pyridine solution. Addition of cross-linking agent provides higher surface area beads. Addition of monomers such as hydroxyethylmethacrylate acrylamide or methacrylamide increases hydrophilic properties and surface area of the beads. High surface area catalytic supports are formed in the presence of controlled pore glass substrate.

Rembaum, Alan↗

Protein specific polymeric immunomicrospheres

Small, round, bio-compatible microspheres capable of covalently bonding proteins and having a uniform diameter below about 3500 A are prepared by substantially instantaneously initiating polymerization of an aqueous emulsion containing no more than 35% total monomer including an acrylic monomer substituted with a covalently bondable group such as hydroxyl, amino or carboxyl and a minor amount of a cross-linking agent.

Rembaum, Alan↗

Ion-exchange hollow fibers

An ion-exchange hollow fiber is prepared by introducing into the wall of the fiber polymerizable liquid monomers, and polymerizing the monomers therein to form solid, insoluble, cross-linked, ion-exchange resin particles which embed in the wall of the fiber. Excess particles blocking the central passage or bore of the fiber are removed by forcing liquid through the fiber. The fibers have high ion-exchange capacity, a practical wall permeability and good mechanical strength even with very thin wall dimensions. Experimental investigation of bundles of ion-exchange hollow fibers attached to a header assembly have shown the fiber to be very efficient in removing counterions from solution.

Rembaum, Alan↗

Coating for gasifiable carbon-graphite fibers

A thin, uniform, firmly adherent coating of metal gasification catalyst is applied to a carbon-graphite fiber by first coating the fiber with a film-forming polymer containing functional moieties capable of reaction with the catalytic metal ions. Multivalent metal cations such as calcium cross-link the polymer such as a polyacrylic acid to insolubilize the film by forming catalytic metal macro-salt links between adjacent polymer chains. The coated fibers are used as reinforcement for resin composites and will gasify upon combustion without evolving conductive airborne fragments.

Harper-Tervet, Jan↗