Obtaining NASA approval for use of non-metallic materials in manned space flight

摘要

Material manufacturers and suppliers are surprised when a material commonly provided to industry is not approved for use on manned spacecraft. Often, the reason is a lack of test data in environments that simulate those encountered in space applications, especially oxygen-enriched conditions, which significantly increase the likelihood of com bustion and the propagation of fire. This paper introduces requirements for flight approval of non-metallic materials, introduces testing requirements, describes procedures for submitting materials for testing, outlines options if a material fails testing, and introduces the materials and processes technical information system (MAPTIS), a databas e housing all test data produced in accordance with NASA-STD-6001, Flammability, Odor, Offgassing, and Compatibility Requirements and Test Procedures for Materials in Environments that Support Combustion.