PRODUCTION OF HIGH PURITY THERMAL CONTROL COATINGS.
Abstract
Methods, process controls, and equipment have been developed for preparing high purity inorganic-based thermal control coatings for spacecraft. Two pigments, ZrO2.SiO2 and LiAlSiO4, have been synthesized in the laboratory, optimized, and produced in multipound quantities. The effects of ionic impurities, synthesis, and pigment purification parameters on the space radiation stability of the pigments and pigment-potassium silicate binder systems have been studied in detail. Optimization of the pigment-potassium silicate matrix for preparation of gallon quantities has been carried out. Formulation of these quantities is now routine. Application by spray and drawdown techniques for a variety of aluminum and titanium space vehicular shapes and sizes has been successful with no cracking or loss of adhesion. Coating preparation and deposition methods have evolved to produce inorganic coatings of minimal optical and physical changes in laboratory-simulated space radiation and vacuum environments. The potential for effectively coating large and complex shapes and structures with a high degree of reproducibility and reliability has been demonstrated. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1968
- Accession Number
- AD0830980
Entities
People
- Lionel J. Bailin
Organizations
- Lockheed Martin Missiles and Space