Form 9.B Project Summary

Chron:

970723

Proposal Number:

10.07-4239

Project Title:

Lightweight, Low Thermal Conductivity

Cryogenic Penetrations

Technical Abstract (Limit 200 words)

Foster-Miller proposes to refine and utilize its

proprietary and patented liquid crytalline prolyemrs

(LCP) processing technology to produce low weight

and low thermal conductivity cryogen tank

penetrations such as feed lines, vent lines and

instrumentation feed throughs. Our biaxially

oriented LCPs are ideal for cryogenic applications

because of their proven compatibility with LOX,

retention of ductility and strength at cryogenic

temperatures, low permeability to gases, far lower

density than metals or composites, and

exceptionally low thermal conductivity. Our

proposed approach is expected to reduce cryogen

tnak thermal induced losses by 17-25%. This will

result in significant reductions in the cryotank

weight or major increases in strorage capacity if the

original tank weight is maintained. Such savings can

extend mission life or increase payload capacity.

Potential savings are expected to range from

$275,000 to $2,000,000 per launch/mission.

In Phase I Foster-Miller will demonstrate the

feasibility of our minimal heat transfer LCP

cryogenic tank penetrations. We will produce

tube/pipe at varying biaxial orientations and wall

thicknesses, and establish their mechanical,

thermomechanical (CTE) and thermal conductivity

properties. A cost/benefit analysis will then be used

to establish the technical and economic viability of

our LCP cryogenic tank penetration components.

Potential Commercial Applications (Limit 200 words)

Commercial applications include high strength

tubes for aerospace and astrospace structures

where zero axial CTE can provide major benefits,

accurate gauge medical tubing for endoscopic

instruments and tools, and high voltage electrical

tubing and conduit. In addition a larger scale

version of this technology may be readily applied to

advanced-high performance solid rocket motors.

Name and Address of Principal Investigator (Name,

Organization Name, Mail Address, City/State/Zip)

Leslie S. Rubin

Foster-Miller, Inc.

350 Second Avenue

Waltham , MA

Name and Address of Offeror (Firm Name, Mail Address,

City/State/Zip)

Adi R. Guzdar

Foster-Miller, Inc.

350 Second Avenue

Waltham , MA 02154-1196