The new insulation's ability to maintain its flexibility at cryogenic temperatures makes it a superior choice for cryogenic expansion joints, designed to absorb expansion/contraction stresses. Some examples of cryogenic applications of these new materials include medical storage/transport units, cryogenic fuel tanks, and wind tunnels. The technology developed under this program can benefit aerospace, marine, aircraft, electronic, electrical, rail, automotive, recreation, building materials, and construction industries. Immediate benefit from the proposed Phase I program is the design and fabrication of a composite-based spray deposition insulation system for thermal protection of aircraft surfaces. The ability to tailor the thermal and mechanical properties of proposed thermal coating system allows it to be a flexible solution to meet a wide range of technological needs. The new composite based materials can be used as thermal insulation on marine vessels. They can also be shaped for easy installation as pipe covering. The new materials are specifically suited for the needs of the aircraft industry. These high performance thermal insulators will provide weight savings, improved handling/installation characteristics and enhanced performance durability in service. Primary attributes of the proposed composite coatings include fire retardant, broad range of temperature applications (from cryogenic to elevated temperatures), lack of outgassing, and good mechanical properties. Therefore, these materials are the ideal choice for lightweight insulation in space applications. One such application is cryogenic insulation for fuel tanks on major rocket propulsion systems. Another is thermal insulation on the louvers of communications satellites where intermittent exposure to sun and darkness requires these materials operating temperature range. The technology proposed in this program will help NASA to reduce the cost of space flight. Our materials will provide NASA with robust cryogenic solutions and, therefore, will significantly decrease space mission failures.
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