Abstract

This report describes a series of tests conducted on balloon film material to determine if uneven loading of the balloon film material might cause failure at a stress level lower than the originally designated ultimate strength of the material. Specimens of polyethylene balloon film from two diff... Show moreThis report describes a series of tests conducted on balloon film material to determine if uneven loading of the balloon film material might cause failure at a stress level lower than the originally designated ultimate strength of the material. Specimens of polyethylene balloon film from two different manufacturers were tested to learn the effects of prior loading on the ultimate strength of the material. Different film thicknesses were tested uniaxially at the temperature environments most representative of balloon flight conditions, +25 and -80��C, and biaxially at +25��C. Show less