- Author
-
Harper, S. K.
- Title
- Aircraft Mishap Investigations.
- Coporate
- Naval Safety Center, Norfolk, VA
- Book or Conf
- Naval Sir Systems Command. Composites in Fire Workshop. Volume 2. April 2-4, 1985,
Monterey, CA,
25-25/6 p.,
1985
- Keywords
-
composite materials
|
coveralls
|
ground fires
- Abstract
- Increased use of composite materials in aircraft applications has complicated post-accident investigations. A well defined science of composite material failure modes is absent and failures are categorized as matrix cracking, fiber/matrix debonding or delimination. Personnel hazards in working with fractured or urned composite material have been tentatively documented. Sharp "broomstraw" fractured ends of composite surfaces are a serious puncture hazard. Heavy full-cover coveralls, boots, turtleneck flight-deck jerseys and leather-palmed gloves generally provide adequate protection from puncture. Composite material fibers released as a result of aircraft ground fire may be ingested into the body; therefore, eye and lung protection is essential to avoid possible long-term affects of ingested fibers. There are significant problems in providing mishap investigative work teams with appropriate eye and lung protective equipment. Questions of respirator and eye shield supply, storage, proper fitting and reconditioning for future use are unresolved.