Ageing Behavior of Polyamide 6-6 Parachute Fabric in Stratosphere and Troposphere Balloons Systems

Parachutes are used to recover atmospheric measuring instruments and they are mainly made from polyamide 6-6 woven fabric. The objective is to identify modifications of mechanical and physicochemical properties of parachute along his lifespan. For this study, a decommissioned parachute has been characterized and compared to a non-used fabric. Results analysis showed a degradation of mechanical properties (tensile strength and tear) and a greater intake of moisture which alter the flight behavior. This is believed to be caused by the change in crystallinity content. The global fabric analysis showed that storage conditions have a significant impact on degradation.