+ 1970 News Releases (7.6 Mb PDF file) - NASA

MSC 70-95
Reinforced pyrolyzed plastic composite are a new family of high
temperature materials which are intended for long-term use in high
temperature_ highly oxidizing, high heat flux environments. They are
made by reinforcing a plastic_ such as phenolic, with carbon or graphite
fibers or fahric, fabricating or machining the part to the shape v_nted._
then cured, pyrolyzed and graphitized under heat up to 4,600 degrees F.
in an inert environment.
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Development of a _m6h_-we_ghb leading edge material which can survive
multiple reuse through boost and entry enviror_ents will advance the stateof-the-art
technology. The experience with RPP to date has been most
encouraging_ and MSC engineers say and offers a promising approach to
the shuttle thermal protection problem.
LTV and McDonnell Douglas were selected from four companies which
bid on the proposal. The work will he performed for MSC's Engineering
and Development Directorate.