Thermal Barrier Coatings for Titanium and High Temperature Polymeric Composite Components

MicroPhase Coatings, Inc. (MPCI) submits this SBIR Phase II proposal under Topic AF03-115, Thermal Barrier Coatings for Titanium and High Temperature Polymeric Composite Components. TBCs enable use of lower cost, lighter weight metals and composites, and lengthen service life of jet engines, aerospace components and systems, and industrial equipment. However, most existing TBCs are very expensive to apply and to maintain. For this Phase II effort, we focus on airframe components used on the Air Force B-2 Stealth Bomber, although the utility of TBC extends broadly across aircraft, spacecraft, jet engine, military systems, industrial equipment and other commercial applications. MPCI's approach uses polysilsequioxane chemistry with innovative inclusion of other materials and proprietary manufacturing methods. In Phase I we proved the feasibility of the approach and demonstrated strong adhesion to titanium, resistance to high temperature (over 1800F), insulating qualities, room temperature curing, and durability. In Phase II we refine the coating system to enhance service life, to provide a moisture and vapor barrier, to inhibit titanium embrittlement, and qualify it for B-2 flight test. We team with Northrop Grumman Aircraft Systems, Pratt & Whitney, and TIMET, who provide knowledge and test capabilities for aircraft systems, engine systems, and titanium materials.