Degradation of Carbon/Phenolic Composite Materials for Spacecraft Structure Material

¹ Aeronautics and Spaces Research Organization, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), West Java, Indonesia
² Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Indonesia, West Java, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: yudan.whulanza@ui.ac.id

Abstract

Due to their ability to be tailored in terms of strength, stiffness, and density, composite materials are a valuable commodity in the aerospace sector. But composite materials also deteriorate with time, just like other materials do, particularly in abrasive conditions like space. Thermal degradation brought on by abrupt temperature changes in the aircraft environment, which can result in dimensional changes, cracking, and even decomposition of composite materials, are degradation issues that can influence composite materials in aerospace applications. In this study, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of carbon/phenolic composites, as a fiber using carbon fiber (Kyoto carbon) with plain weave type and as a matrix using ARMC-551-RN phenolic resin. Furthermore, the test method refers to the ASTM E1131-08 Standard. Thermogravimetric Compositional Analysis Test Method. Ultimately, engineers hope to improve spacecraft design, reliability, and safety in severe space missions by using TGA analysis to understand the thermal characteristics and stability of carbon/phenolic composite materials utilized in spacecraft components.