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High Temperature Aerogels for Thermal Protection SystemsHigh temperature aerogels in the Al2O3-SiO2 system are being investigated as possible constituents for lightweight integrated thermal protection system (TPS) designs for use in supersonic and hypersonic applications. Gels are synthesized from ethoxysilanes and AlCl3.6H2O, using an epoxide catalyst. The influence of Al:Si ratio, solvent, water to metal and water to alcohol ratios on aerogel composition, morphology, surface area, and pore size distribution were examined, and phase transformation on heat treatment characterized. Aerogels have been fabricated which maintain porous, fractal structures after brief exposures to 1000 C. Incorporation of nanofibers, infiltration of aerogels into SiC foams, use of polymers for crosslinking the aerogels, or combinations of these, offer potential for toughening and integration of TPS with composite structure. Woven fabric composites having Al2O3-SiO2 aerogels as a matrix also have been fabricated. Continuing work is focused on reduction in shrinkage and optimization of thermal and physical properties.
Document ID
20080047453
Acquisition Source
Glenn Research Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Hurwitz, Frances I. (NASA Glenn Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Mbah, Godfrey C. (Benedict Coll. Columbia, SC, United States)
Date Acquired
August 24, 2013
Publication Date
January 27, 2008
Subject Category
Chemistry And Materials (General)
Report/Patent Number
E-16715
Meeting Information
Meeting: 32nd Annual Conference on Composites, Materials and Structures
Location: Daytona Beach, Fl
Country: United States
Start Date: January 27, 2008
End Date: February 1, 2008
Funding Number(s)
WBS: WBS 984754.02.07.03.16.03
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Public Use Permitted.

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