Primary Adhesively Bonded Structure Technology (PABST)

Abstract

The objective of the U.S. Air Force Flight Development Laboratory's Primary Adhesively Bonded Structure Technology (PABST) program awarded to the Douglas Aircraft Company in February 1975, is to improve the structural integrity and durability of future Air Force aircraft while providing significant cost-of-ownership savings (20% goal). Presented is the structural design arrangement selection process which examines static strength, fatigue, and damage tolerance criteria. The surface treatment optimization program, which examines phosphoric acid and chromic acid anodize (using optimized sulf uric-acid/sodium-dichromate [FPL] etch as a standard), is reviewed with current test results. The maximized corrosion resistance afforded by these surface treatments is the key to increased durability. The adhesive selection process is presented with test data. The proposed structural development test plans are discussed. The paper concludes with the projected design, manufacture, and test plans for the full-scale Advanced Development Program (ADP) component. This 52-ft section is the entire cargo compartment of the YC-15 aircraft.