Publication Date:
2004-10-30
Description:
An ammonia-sensitive coating was developed in feasibility studies sponsored by Lockheed Engineering. The paint comprised a cellulosic binder, a dye, a family of solvents, and plasticizer. The resulting coating formulation proved to be very sensitive to trace levels of Lewis-bases and/or nucleophiles, but was limited to concentrations of approximately 1 ppm and higher. In the months following completion of this Lockheed project, efforts to perfect and optimize the paint formulation continued with internal funding. A unique sensitivity enhancing additive was identified and patented which when applied at concentrations of approximately 10% by weight, transcended the 1 ppm sensitivity barrier to fractional ppb. The paint composition was modified by the addition of certain proprietary agents, which promoted a much more intense yellow color in the coating and enhanced its durability in high-vacuum. Paint preparation is a simple one day procedure that can be completed using conventional equipment. Most of the materials are easily obtained.
Keywords:
Nonmetallic Materials
Type:
Dual-Use Space Technology Transfer Conference and Exhibition; Volume 1; 374-382; NASA-CP-3263-Vol-1
Format:
text
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