Contact :
John Whitcomb
Texas A&M University
Dept. of Aerospace Engineering
3141 TAMU
College Station, TX 77843-3141
Tel: (979) 845-4006
jdw@tamu.edu

To achieve the performance requirements and reduced payload costs, future reusable Space Vehicles will require light weight composite fuel tanks that can withstand the rigors associated with multiple launches. Although it is useful to perform experiments for specific designs and service conditions, optimal performance can only be achieved when the effects of various fabrication and service conditions are predictable through modeling. Furthermore, the overall structural integrity and leakage-proof assurance of reusable cryogenic space structure must be verified by nondestructive evaluation means during and immediately following manufacturing as well as between missions.

Image right: Laminate with microcracks.

Texas A&M University's multi-phased approach to the "Prediction of Microcracking Induced Permeability of Cryogenic Composite Tanks" is structured to develop the understanding and tools necessary to prevent microcracking induced leakage problems. Based initially on developing a comprehensive capability to predict permeability of cryogenic composite tanks and microstructural damage observations for composite panels used in cryogenic composite tanks, a computational capability will be developed for the prediction of fuel leakage through damage paths induced during manufacturing and subsequent thermomechanical loading from -420°F up to 350°F.

This ongoing initiative is envisioned as a multi-year effort with significant milestones and deliverables throughout the program.