The objective of this proposal is to develop a preceramic polymer which can be used to make flexible composite materials for future designs of inflatable spacecraft. The uncured flexible composite can be folded or rolled into a small volume for transportation to space. It can then be expanded in space and cured by UV or under reduced pressure into a rigid fiber/polymer matrix composite. The fiber/polymer composite is expected to be strong enough for use as a space structure material that is durable and erosion-free in the space environment. The cured fiber/polymer composite can be used to make the thermal protection system for space sample return capsules. During Earth entry the fiber/polymer matrix composite will form a high temperature fiber/ceramic composite. * A silicon based preceramic polymer system will be synthesized. * Verification of curing methods will be conducted by UV irradiation under reduced pressure or by reduced pressure alone. Fiber/polymer composite will be prepared and curing study will be performed. These tests are crucial in determining successful transportation, expansion, and curing methods.
