Cryogenic properties of polymer composite materials — a review

Publisher Summary This chapter presents detailed discussions on the effects of various factors on the cryogenic mechanical and thermal properties at the unique operating environments. Polymer composite materials are used in a wide variety of cryogenic applications to replace metals because of their unique and highly tailorable properties. To develop high performance polymer composites for cryogenic applications, it is necessary to understand how polymer composites behave at cryogenic temperatures and how their cryogenic properties are affected by factors such as filler content and matrix type etc. Polymer composite materials are being increasingly employed to manufacture structural components that are exposed to low temperature environments in space and superconducting applications. The involved composites include fiber and particle reinforced thermoplastic and thermosetting polymer composites. The cryogenic applications of polymer composites can be classified as support structures, vessels, and electrical insulation. Fundamental mechanical, thermal, and electrical requirements should be met by polymer composites for specific cryogenic applications.