METALS
Most commonly used metal in aerospace
Aluminum
Gas in LEO that causes corrosion
Atomic oxygen
Material made from two or more materials
Composite
What fibres carry in a material
Loads / stress
Why pure aluminum is not used
Too weak
Small fast-moving objects that can damage spacecraft
Micrometeoroids / debris
Two parts that make up a composite
Fibres and matrix
One of the lightest metals used in aerospace
Mg
Two hazards found in space environments
radiation, temperature changes, atomic oxygen, debris
Why composites are used in aerospace
Strong and lightweight
Fibre known for very high strength and impact resistance
Kevlar (Aramid)
Metal that is strong, lightweight, and corrosion resistant
Titanium
Orbit closest to Earth (up to 1000 km)
LEO
Composite fibre made from silica glass
Fibreglass
Fibre with very high strength-to-weight ratio
Carbon fibre
What is the key idea about aerospace materials and environment?
Different environments require different materials
Two elements found in stainless steel
Chromium and nickel
Why materials must be tested before use
To ensure they can handle extreme conditions
What composites are designed to do
Combine the best properties of materials
What fibres determine in a composite
Strength and stiffness