Evaluation of Coated Columbian Alloy Heat Shields for Space Shuttle Thermal Protection System Application. Volume 1 Phase 1 - Environmental Criteria and Material Characterization, October 1970 - March 1972

摘要

The studies presented are directed toward establishing criteria for a niobium alloy thermal protection system for the space shuttle. Evaluation of three niobium alloys and two silicon coatings for heat shield configurations culminated in the selection of two coating/substrate combinations for environmental criteria and material characterization tests. Specimens were exposed to boost and reentry temperatures, pressure, and loads simulating a space shuttle orbiter flight profile.