Strain Tolerant Blockade-ST Coating for Hypersonics

In order to adequately protect against hypersonic threats, hypersonic interceptor missiles must be developed. To ensure hypersonic survivability, the oxidative and high thermal stresses resulting from hypersonic flight must be addressed, while maintaining strain tolerances to allow flexing and maneuvering during flight. To mitigate the impact of the extreme environment exposure, thermal protection coatings (TPCs) are integrated to reduce the effect of aerothermal stresses. However, existing TPC solutions are not adequate to meet the Missile Defense Agency (MDA)Æs need for the coating to survive geometrical changes while maintaining thermal protection. Luna Labs USA proposes a conformal TPC solution, termed Blockade-ST, which can be applied via spray or brush. By controlling the inorganic constituents, coating thickness, and number of coating layers, the thermal protection properties will be tailored to protect the underlying substrate while maintaining strain tolerance. The Blockade-ST chemistry and simple application process is expected to meet the MDAÆs need for strain tolerant TPCs for hypersonic missiles. Approved for Public Release | 24-MDA-11906 (16 Sep 24)