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For the design of infrastructure and components in LNG applications, understanding the mechanical behaviour of materials at expected operating temperatures is essential. To support this, we have performed, for example, tensile tests at -165 °C using a dewar setup. These tests enable the characterization of material properties under realistic cryogenic conditions relevant for LNG environments.

To minimize surface deformation errors of the M1 mirror segments of the European Extremely Large Telescope (E-ELT), the support positions were optimized using a parametric finite element model of the mirror segment and its support structure. The optimization process was driven by gradient-based numerical algorithms to achieve optimal support configurations for minimal surface deviations under operational conditions.

To assess the suitability of epoxy resin bonding in wooden aircraft construction, a comprehensive study was conducted. This included a literature review and a series of mechanical tests—tensile, tensile shear, transverse tensile, fatigue strength, and pull-off—on various combinations of resins, wood types, environmental conditions, and temperatures.

Test samples were manufactured, bonded, conditioned, and then tested under defined conditions. Based on the results, recommendations were derived regarding the optimal resin, glueing procedure and wood type for reliable and durable bonding in aviation applications.