MALTA, N.Y.--(Business Wire)--
Starfire Systems has once again contributed materials technology
that could provide NASA astronauts technical options for repairing
large damage to the wing leading edge thermal protection system. The
Large Area Repair (LAR) kit includes a flexible fiber reinforced
ceramic panel, the LAR cover plate, based on Starfire's polymer
ceramic technology. Current technologies for on-orbit repair include
mechanical attach methods that accommodate small holes up to four
inches diameter, and NOAX sealant for repair of small cracks and
gouges. This technology has been successfully demonstrated in orbit by
NASA under simulated conditions for small damage repair.
The LAR cover plate employs the use of patented silicon carbide
forming polymers to create a flexible ceramic wrap designed to conform
to the curvature of the Shuttle's leading edge. The ceramic wrap has
been demonstrated at the Boeing St. Louis arc jet facility where it
was tested under simulated entry conditions up to 2700 (degrees)F.
Starfire materials technology has also been applied to repair
solutions such as NOAX, a paste-like sealant that is used to repair
composite substrate exposed from wing leading edge or nose cap damage.
NOAX is now carried on all shuttle missions for small heat shield
crack repairs, and the system was successfully demonstrated for repair
of simulated damage during a July 12, 2006 spacewalk.
About Starfire Systems, Inc.
At its core, Starfire Systems is an innovator in the discovery,
use, application and creation of products using advanced
high-temperature materials. At the most fundamental level, Starfire
tailors the molecular structures of its polymers to enhance other
materials, creating advanced high temperature products. These polymer
ceramics are formed into new types of composites, laminates, and
coatings that are well suited to applications and products in
transportation, aerospace and electronics. For more information on
Starfire's innovative technologies and products, visit
www.starfiresystems.com.
Starfire Systems, Inc.
Herb Armstrong, 518-899-9336
Vice President, Marketing/Sales
armstrongh@starfiresystems.com
Copyright Business Wire 2008
