Application of Permselective Composite Techniques for Atmosphere-Thermal Control of Emergency

Item

Title
Application of Permselective Composite Techniques for Atmosphere-Thermal Control of Emergency
Date
1967
Index Abstract
Not Available
Photo Quality
Not Needed
Report Number
AMRL TR 66-224
Creator
Withey, D. J.
Glanfield, E. J.
Dohner, C. V.
Corporate Author
General Electric Company
Laboratory
Aerospace Medical Research Laboratories
Extent
94
Identifier
AD0655089
Access Rights
Distribution of this document is unlimited
Distribution Classification
1
Contract
AF 33(615)-2850
DoD Project
6373
DoD Task
637302
DTIC Record Exists
No
Distribution Change Authority Correspondence
None
Distribution Conflict
No
Abstract
The program encompasses the analysis, research, design fabrication, and testing of an exploratory laboratory model of an emergency or extravehicular space assembly using permselective membrane techniques for atmosphere control. The purpose of this effort was to develop an advanced concept which would depart from the traditional approach utilized in spacecraft design by transferring most of the atmosphere-thermal control functions from the associated hardware subsystems to the enclosing structure. A silicon rubber permselective composite incorporated into the pressure retention wall of the enclosing structure permits selective permeation of carbon dioxide, water vapor, and contaminant gases to space with minimal oxygen permeation. In addition, the use of superinsulation on the exterior surface of the structure provides passive radiant thermal control. This, in conjunction with the permselective composite material, substantially reduces the weight, volume, and power requirements of environmental control subsystems required for a manned emergency and extravehicular assembly. While the permselectivity of the silicone rubber composite was determined, the final structure was subject to a large amount of leakage. This resulted in the cancellation of the full scale test program and in redirection of the project effort to include a failure analysis to determine the cause and solution to the leakage problem.
Report Availability
Full text available
Date Issued
1967-04
Provenance
RAF Centre of Aviation Medicine
Type
report
Format
1 online resource