High Temperature Fracture Mechanics - P4619

The development of advanced thermal protection systems (TPS) requires the continued research of high-temperature materials, i.e., silicon carbide composites, carbon-carbon composites, aluminum, and titanium. The aerodynamic heating produced by extreme velocities, i.e., above Mach 5, in the atmosphere can affect the strength of materials. Of particular interest is an understanding and characterization of the fracture of these materials under high strain rates and high heat loadings simultaneously over short time periods. A capability to analyze the effects of high-temperature environments on the fracture characteristics of high-temperature materials in a hypervelocity impact is needed. Under the Phase I STTR program, Material Sciences LLC and Southwest Research Institute have demonstrated the feasibility of a modeling and testing methodology for analyzing the effects of high-temperature environments on the fracture characteristics of high-temperature composite materials in a hypervelocity impact. This Phase II program will expand the scope of the Phase I feasibility study to include more comprehensive model development and validation, with multiple testing campaigns to support demonstration of the methodology. Approved for Public Release |21-MDA-10789 (21 Apr 21)