Boron-based fiber composites for MISSE 6 experiment

Boron fibers have a significant potential to be utilized as structural components for flight / space applications. The key technical issue was to develop a cost effective method to produce continuous boron fibers. MER has accomplished success in that area by utilizing spread, low-cost PANEX 48 K carbon fibers. Subsequently, process conditions were optimized to coat about 1.5 - 2 mum boron on the carbon fibers without spreading. A new technology was developed to produce boron fiber / epoxy composites. The MISSE 6 experiment allowed for the space exposure of the new class of radiation protection technology.