Project Title:

Metallized Kevlar Space Tether System

09.06-5785
Metallized Kevlar Space Tether System
Material Concepts Inc.
666 North Hague Avenue
Columbus
OH
43204
Orban
Ralph F.
NAS8-37256
Amount:   
MSFC
NAS8-35268

Abstract:

   Metal coated Kevlar has been investigated as a space tether system. Several different tether samples were evaluated against atomic oxygen attack.  A
pilot production unit capable of coating Kevlar was also designed and built.  After
modification and improvement, the pilot production unit is capable of producing high-quality,
metal-coated Kevlar in a timely and economic manner.  Samples were exposed to an
oxygen plasma, then evaluated.  Results indicate that metal coating does not seriously
degrade strength.  A copper undercoat, a nickel overcoat and an insulating polymer
overcoat over both metals appears to be a viable candidate.

The objective now is to produce a 2.5 kilometer metallized Kevlar tether which has
the required strength characteristics, the required electrical conductivity and the
required degree of protection against attack by atomic oxygen.  Work will include
further production, exposure, and testing of selected candidate tether materials,
improvements in testing and process quality control, increasing production from the
pilot coating unit, examination of various tether constructions, preparation of processsing
and tether specifications, and production of a finished tether.