Mechanical Properties Testing of Plastic Laminate Materials Down to 20°K

Abstract

The advantages of fiberglass-reinforced plastic materials for structural applications have long been recognized. Among these advantages are high strength-to-weight ratio, ease of fabrication, durability, simplicity of tooling for the production of intricate shapes, and corrosion resistance. The properties of all the more common laminating materials have been thoroughly explored in the normal and elevated temperature range. Until recently, however, there were virtually no data available on the performance of these materials in a cryogenic environment.