Project Title:

Fibrous Composites for Extreme Temperature Insulation Applications

94-1	9.02	1354		

Fibrous Composites for Extreme Temperature Insulation Applications

Abstract:

Future space-based systems are increasingly expected to perform at 
severe environments. This is creating a growing need for advanced 
insulation materials that are lightweight, durable, and of low-
cost. Recently discovered nanomaterials (nanotubes and 
nanoceramics) meet these requirements since they have low density, 
low thermal conductivity, are mechanically strong and thermally 
robust at extreme temperatures. Furthermore these novel materials 
ablate in case of abnormal thermal loads - thereby cooling the 
insulation and the substrate, without thermal damage. These 
properties ideally satisfy the needs for advanced insulation 
material for extreme temperature applications. Nanomaterials 
Research Corporation (NRC) will demonstrate and commercialize (for 
space and non-space applications) an advanced insulation material 
based on nanomaterials during this program. 
NRC's technical approach will be to produce low density fibrous 
composites from carbon nanotubes with nanoceramics as the matrix. 
This program will establish, as part of Phase I work, the proof-of-
concept that nanomaterials-based composites are ideal advanced 
insulation materials for extreme temperature applications. Phase I 
efforts will culminate in a conceptual framework and a systematic 
design approach for engineering the insulation needs in extreme 
temperature applications. The Phase II work will use this 
conceptual framework to develop a prototype, optimize its 
performance and field test the prototype. 

The technology to be developed and commercialized during this 
program is expected to play a key role in space and non-space 
applications that are subject to extreme temperature exposures. 
Thermal insulation is a multi-billion dollar industry serving a 
wide range of residential and industrial application needs. High to 
extreme temperature insulation is needed for space applications 
such as protection of vehicle, space crew and human support 
functions during atmospheric entry, and for non-space applications 
such as refractory materials for basic industries and for emergency 
services. 

Key Words

Nanomaterials Research Corporation
10960 N. Stallard Pl.
Tucson, AZ 85737