BACKGROUND
High-temperature applications, such as rocket engine combustion output, can reach temperatures as high as 3,315 °C (6,000 °F). Enough heat to fuse a concrete surface, like a launch pad, into glass. Fused concrete has a limited lifetime as structural integrity is compromised in some cases immediately, resulting in potentially dangerous conditions and catastrophic complications. Thermal protection has been elusive or unreasonable due to cost, method of implementation, or end performance.
SUMMARY OF TECHNOLOGY
Researchers at OSU have developed a material with high thermal protection properties. Tests of the material have shown that 1-inch-thick layer can withstand 90 seconds of acetylene-oxygen torching (>3315 °C/6000 °F) from two inches before any temperature change occurs in the concrete substrate. Broadly, this material can be inexpensively composed of commonly available biodegradable materials. As a result, multiple application methods are available for a variety of specific uses. For example, the material can be mixed on-site and laid similarly to concrete. Conversely, off-site application and curing in the form of plates, tiles, or other geometries are available. The ratios of the components can be altered to achieve desired behaviors on a per-application basis (e.g., longer workability period, higher heat protection, etc.). Overall, the material provides effective and easy-to-use protection for launch pads and other high temperature structures from accumulating damage from extreme thermal exposure.
Figure 1: Torch testing the thermal protective material.
POTENTIAL AREAS OF APPLICATION
- Rocket launchpads
- Blast furnace
- Fireproofing platforms, walls, warehouses, battery storage
MAIN ADVANTAGES
- High thermal protection
- Inexpensive, readily available materials, shelf-life
- Can be used while wet
- Can be used after hardening (e.g., tiles, plates)
- Reduces cost of platform and housing maintenance
STAGE OF DEVELOPMENT