| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1524346 | Materials Chemistry and Physics | 2011 | 6 Pages |
We report on our research towards determining a reliable and reproducible method of bonding ULE® components for space-based instruments. Such bonded components are required to withstand considerable accelerations during launch and can be exposed to significant temperature variations. The results of tensile and shear testing of a large number of bonded samples are reported, as well as the impact of thermal cycling on bond strength. A study on the feasibility of de-bonding and re-bonding ULE parts is also described.
► Optical contacting maintains optical tolerances of glass assemblies. ► Catalytic bonding creates strong bond between glass parts. ► Bond strength is enhanced by baking components. ► Breaking stress and bending strength thresholds sufficient for space usage are reached and exceeded; Weibull modulus similar to bulk glass. ► Thermal cycling does not affect the bond strength. ► De-bonding and re-bonding are possible within a time window of several hours.
