FIBERGLASS COMPOSITES FOR CRYOGENIC SPACE TANKAGE 640290
Preliminary work in the area of fiberglass composites for space tankage has indicated a high potential. The major advantage is the structural efficiency. Recent development programs have demonstrated the applicability and practicality of the system on subscale bases. Extension of these basic data reveal that substantial weight savings can be realized with fiberglass tanks over those of aluminum, especially for the large diameters contemplated. Based upon the same criteria, titanium compares favorably with the fiberglass with regard to structural efficiency. The major advantages and problem areas of a fiberglass composite structure are outlined and discussed in the paper.