Advanced Materials and Processes: Low-CTE Polymer Composite Resists Combustion, Microcracks.(coefficient of thermal expansion)(Brief article)

It is briefly reported that a thermoplastic fluoropolymer composite that has a low coefficient of thermal expansion and inherent resistance to combustion has been successfully tested at the NASA White Sands Test Facility. Xcor's new composite can be used by the aerospace industry in production of LOX tanks for fuel cells, life support systems and small secondary propulsion systems such as attitude control thrusters. Its thermal insulating properties, non-flammability and resistance to microcracking, as well as the high strength-to-weight ratio typical of composites, make it an enabling technology for building lighter, cheaper, more robust structures and systems.

Copyquest order no. 974557

164, No.6, June 2006, p.10-11 ISSN: 0882-7958