No description available.

Thesis (Ph.D.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Urban Studies and Planning, 1981. / MICROFICHE COPY AVAILABLE IN ARCHIVES AND ROTCH / Bibliography: leaves 561-577. / by Daniel Alec Sargent. / Ph.D.

The material properties of the candidate fiber-reinforced composite materials and different fabrication methods for fiber composites were discussed. The improvement of the hand lay-up process for polyurethane impregnated Kevlar was investigated. Testing samples for lab and prototype tests were fabricated by hand lay-up process. The study showed that fiber composites fabricated by the hand lay-up process can achieve good properties, and advanced fabrication methods could be applied In industrial manufacturing processes to improve the fiber composite properties. A nonlinear static analysis was discussed. The ANSYS finite element analysis computer program was used to build stress analysis models, simulate the loading conditions, and perform the nonlinear static analysis. The tensile strength proof test was designed and done by using a microcomputer controlled Instron 4505. It showed that the different types of fiber composites can meet the strength requirements for the application. Polyurethane impregnated Kevlar showed the best strength properties among the different types of fiber composites, which were fabricated and tested. The wear and abrasion properties of the different types of fiber composites were discussed and relevant tests were introduced. An ultraviolet light exposure test and the Oregon Department of Transportation road-cover test were conducted. Moisture and acid resistance and cost analysis were also discussed. Based on the results of the study, a prediction of the optimal fiber-reinforced composite materials was made. Also, various conclusions and recommendations for future research work were made. / Graduation date: 2000

No description available.