What is the lowest temperature composites can go

[beegw]

I have a Tg temperature of 190 C for a composite after curing. I am told that structural properties are good up to that temperature ( or some amount below it like 30C) How do you know if a composite is good for lower temperatures, for instance an e-glass or similar at -45C? Thanks

 

[SWComposites]

What is your definition of "good"?

"how do you know?" run a test or two or more ...

Composites are used on aircraft at ~ -65F all the time.

Composites are used on spacecraft at much lower temperatures

 

[RPstress]

Agree with SW. Carbon/epoxy is used for LH2 temperature (-423°F?).

Confess I don't know about low temp props of glass, but I'd be very surprised if -45°C was a problem with basic laminate properties; should watch CTE vs. other materials, of course. CTE E-glass/epoxy 10 – 16 µe/K.

 

[Hansmeister]

On the WMAP program, the structure was tested to 40 Kelvin. 350F cure, high modulus carbon/graphite materials, and EA 9394 adhesive.

 

[allcomposites]

Run a couple of DSC and DMA tests to find out the low temperature behavior of your resin and laminate. It is a pretty standard technique used in most composite laboratories.