A recent study by Johns Hopkins and Advanced Ceramic Fibers LLC worked toward ceramic matrix composites able to withstand up to 3,500°C for space heatshields.
NASA's Interstellar Probe (ISP) concept study, led by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL, Laurel, Md., US), would be the first mission intentionally sent to explore the space beyond our solar system, requiring it to travel faster and farther than any other spacecraft, including the Voyager probes. To be able to reach very long distances at very high speeds, the Interstellar Probe may need to perform an “Oberth maneuver,” which would swing the probe close to the sun and use the sun's gravity to slingshot the probe toward deep space. To enable this effort, research is being done to develop a lightweight, ultra-high-temperature material for use on the probe's protective solar shield.
In response, high-temperature materials developer Advanced Ceramic Fibers LLC (ACF, Idaho Falls, Idaho, US) recently conducted a seven-month project with APL to develop potential materials able to withstand temperatures up to 3,500°C (6,332°F). The project, which took place from February to August 2020, showed promising initial results for ACF's ultra-high-temperature ceramic matrix composite (CMC) materials.
CMCs, often used in aircraft engine and other high-temperature applications (see “Commercialization of CMCs and developments for next-gen performance” and “Bridging the gap between CFRP and CMC”), showed the most promise for investigation, given their light weight and ability to withstand high temperatures. After initial testing, coupons made of ACF's proprietary CMC materials showed potential for reaching or exceeding NASA's temperature targets, with low vapor pressures and while maintaining mechanical strength requirements.
Information from: Composites world