Highly Flexible and Extremely Durable Polyimide Cryogenic Insulation, Phase I

The proposed innovative insulation would greatly enhance the usability of, and reduce the inherent losses associated with, cryogenic fuel delivery and storage apparatus. The proposed insulation has been tested to yield a thermal conductivity value of 0.019w/mK @ one inch format @ an areal density <1pcf. In addition, the ability of the proposed insulation to remain highly flexible at extreme cryogenic temperatures for extended periods of time is unique. Testing done by KSC on early forms of this material proved its ability to remain flexible in continuous cryogenic applications in outside environments. However, degradation of the foam was observed over extended periods. In this Phase I, GFT proposes to test the hypothesis that it can significantly improve the earlier material's long-term durability through altered synthesis and imidization processes.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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