Porous aluminum oxide insulation materials tested in space mission

Abstract

The eventual aim of this research work was to develop a new low-cost synthesis route to produce ultralight aluminum oxide ceramic fibers for high temperature insulation. This paper mainly focuses on the application of Al2O3 fibers as insulation materials in space vehicles. The study extended to check the fibers during the launch and in the conditions of space by a satellite test. The materials were monitored by thermo-vacuum and vibration tests before the launch. The long-term stability, the daily maximum and minimum temperature, and the temperature fluctuation were investigated in the satellite test. The data derived from satellite was collected in about 9 months. The other focus of this study was the characterization of fibers at high temperature. Al2O3 fibers were prepared by a new solution method and electrospinning technique. The developed Al2O3 fibers can be characterized by 0.035–0.037 W⋅mK−1 thermal conductivity, excellent heat resistance (up to 1600 °C), and good flexibility.