Pultrusion process for fabrication of tethers (preliminary concepts)

Three composite materials were manufactured by the pultrusion process, coiled on 24 inch diameter spools for a period of two months, uncoiled and evaluated for memory recall. These materials were pultruded to lengths of approximately 150 feet and cross section profiles were maintained at 0.143 inch in thickness by 0.566 inch in width. Mechanical properties were studied and results compared. The reinforcement material volume percent of each was identical. Of the three systems, the Kevlar reinforced composite had the highest specific strength, the lowest flexural modulus, and the lowest memory recall. Further evaluations of materials and fabrication technology of pultrusion should be conducted to address some problem areas encountered in this preliminary concept. Areas for further study are suggested.