Abstract

PORTOCARRERO HERMANN, Julián; OSORIO, John Darío  and  ROBAYO-SALAZAR, Rafael Andres. Ablative Composites of Polymeric Matrix (Polyester Resin) Reinforced With Industrial Residue Materials and Fiberglass. Rev. ing. univ. Medellín [online]. 2020, vol.19, n.36, pp.223-237.  Epub Sep 02, 2021. ISSN 1692-3324.  https://doi.org/10.22395/rium.v19n36a11.

The ablative materials are the base of the thermal protection systems for equipment and recoverable elements that, when used, are exposed to high temperatures. Generally, these materials are hard to acquire and costly, which makes difficult their application in countries such as Colombia. This research describes the acquisition and characterization of ablative composites based on a matrix of polyester resin reinforced with particulate materials (60-70 % in weight) and fiberglass (5 % in weight). Ceramic residues and aluminum dross finely ground (<75 μm) were used as particulates, highlighting that both materials are industrial byproducts. The developed composites were put through the direct flame test to assess their ablative performance. Thus, the thermal conditions (1,600-2,000 °C) to which the nozzle of a low orbit rocket (prove type) is exposed were simulated. Complementarily, the effect of the ablative test over the cracking level and erosion (loss of weight) of the developed composites were assessed. As an indirect measure of the residual mechanic performance of the composites the hardness of the thermally affected area was determined. The gathered results are considered highly important for the production of thermic protection systems or propelling composites with raw materials of easier acquisition and lower cost in Colombia.

Keywords : composite materials; ablative materials; thermal protective systems; direct flame test; aerospace industry.

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