Development of an External Ceramic Insulation for the Space Shuttle Orbiter. Part 3: Development of Stabilized Aluminum Phosphate Fibers

摘要

The development of reusable surface insulation materials that are thermal shock resistant and highly refractory is discussed. A stabilized, high-cristobalite, aluminum orthophosphate fiber was developed and found to possess the desired qualities. The application of such a material to heat shielding for space shuttles is examined.