This covers non-metallic materials that do not fall in any other DML material class, i.e. it does not include thermosetting or
thermoplastic type polymer-based materials, but does cover ceramic-type materials used for space.
These materials are generally known as advanced technical ceramics (ATCs): a term that encompasses a wide range of material types used in engineering applications for mechanical, electrical or thermal characteristics or some combination thereof. It also covers "Functional" ceramics, e.g. piezoelectric, but can include materials for optical applications.
Structural uses of ceramics are
largely limited to those applications where extreme service temperatures or aggressive environmental conditions preclude the use of any other material (e.g. re-entry surfaces of manned or reusable space vehicles).
Ceramic coatings can be applied selectively to parts to improve resistance to hot, aggressive environments such as those within propulsion systems.
Ceramic-based adhesives can be used for very high-temperature applications (1000ºC) normally for the assembly of
ceramics.
Thermal insulation ceramic-based products can be applied to structures and also used in payload experiments (e.g. oven and furnace linings).
Ceramics and glasses are used in electrical and electronic equipment subassemblies (electrical insulators); within the manufacture of electronic components (capacitors; packaging for integrated circuits); and in sensing and measuring devices (transducers). |
