Abrasion Resistant and Flame-Resistant Textile Materials for Lunar Environments

Abrasion and flame-resistant yarn and textiles will be developed to protect the ortho layer of spacesuits against the extreme lunar surface environments. Flexible, nanocomposite fibers will be produced using a novel fluoroelastomer siloxane material with demonstrated flame resistance in 36% oxygen environment. Siloxane segments with low glass transition temperatures are incorporated into copolymer to afford low temperature flexibility at the cryogenic lunar temperatures and added flame resistance. Functionalized nanoparticles will be introduced to fortify the yarns and textiles against lacerations by the aggressive lunar regolith to afford repeated extravehicular missions. This textile technology will protect the wearer and extend the service life of spacesuits for repeated missions and be applicable to other NASA applications requiring protection from extreme conditions.

The proposed textiles will serve as a protective layer to current ortho layer of spacesuits. Other NASA uses are in protective clothing, drapes, upholstery, bedding, carpet, tents, and coverings for space parts and equipment. This technology will benefit the astronauts to function in pressurized rovers, and other space vehicles with enriched oxygen atmospheres. These materials will also benefit several space programs, particularly the lunar Human Landing System, Orion, Gateway, and Artemis.

The textiles can be used for firefighters, electrical workers, foundry workers, and military personnel. The textiles can be used for articles, like protective clothing, blankets, tents, furniture, and mattresses.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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