FLEXIBLE INSULATION WITH ULTRA-LOW THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY

An innovative high temperature insulation system is proposed which utilizes high temperature compatible refractory aerogels and fibers. This composite structure incorporates key features of the extremely low thermal conductivity of the aerogels and the flexibility, durability, and engineerbility of the fiber matrix. The proposed comosite insulation will result in a conveniently usable, relatively maintanance-free, and highly effective high temperature insulation which is urgently needed for reentry spacecraft and space systems. In Phase I, we will demonstrate the feasibility of producing high temperature compatible, refractory aerogels. We will also demonstrate the extremely low thermal conductivity of the proposed composite structures by interstitially forming aerogels into flexible fiber matrix.