BIAXIAL LOADING OF A TEXTILE RIBBONS STRUCTURE FOR AN INFLATABLE MODULE OF SPACE HABITATS

The aim of the experimental campaign was to assess and observe the biaxial tensile mechanical response of a ribbons structure as part of an inflatable module of space habitats. The structure consists of orthogonal ZylonTM and KevlarTM ribbons connected at crossover by Nylon thread seams. A clamping system was designed and manufactured to reproduce the biaxial loading condition supposed in the inflatable module application. The tests were assisted by a digital image correlation system. The images post-processing allowed the observation and measurement of the full field strain of the different connection schemes. The results of the tests show the excellent mechanical performance of the ribbons structure at the maximum biaxial load level without visible damage.