Mechanical Properties of Zylon/Epoxy Composite at 295K and 77 K

Zylon fiber/epoxy composites are used at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory for structural reinforcement of high field pulse magnet coils. Zylon fiber have been chosen to replace glass or carbon fibers primarily because of the fiber's extremely high strength and elastic modulus. Although the fiber properties are well documented, there is limited data available with respect to its properties in fiber/epoxy composite form, especially at low temperatures. Here the mechanical properties pertinent to pulse magnet design are characterized and analyzed with respect to manufacturing variables. Specifically the elastic modulus, tensile strength, and fatigue life of the quasiunidirectional composite specimens, are measured at both 295 K and 77 K