Inducted Technology: Radiant Barrier


Innovating Companies Innovators  
Radiant Technologies, Inc. Hugh von Deldon Michael Kerschner
Quantum International Corporation James Stuckey Ph.D. Eric Hyde
NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Preston Smith Peter Glaser Ph.D.
NASA Johnson Space Center David Shea Robert Brown
NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory Arthur Little Clark Beck Sr.
     

Spacecraft are subject to temperature extremes that range from 400° F above zero to 400° below zero. Protecting astronauts from these extreme temperatures was a prime concern for NASA spacecraft designers. NASA researchers sought after a temperature control technology for the Apollo spacecraft that would provide a barrier which was both lightweight and flexible and had sufficient durability to withstand the rigors of space. After considerable effort, a process technology was developed that permitted producing plastic films coated with a thin layer of aluminum. These thin ?etallized?plastics were utilized in virtually all spacecraft from then on. With this technology, the temperature in manned spacecraft could be controlled to permit a comfortable working environment.

The radiant barrier was a useful temperature controller in space, so the earth applications possible, such as in insulating homes and office buildings, soon followed. U.S. firms acquiring the technology, such as Radiant Technologies, Inc. of Virginia and Quantum International Corporation (now Tech 2000) of Washington, manufacture and market insulation using a combination of high-grade aluminum overlaid around a core of fire-resistant propylene or Mylar. These radiant barriers are being used in home and commercial buildings, and in automobiles, trucks and food transports. The now multi-million-dollar metallized plastic market continues to grow. The thin ?pace blanket?and other clothing-related products offer excellent warmth at minimal weight and bulk.

The technology has been used as wrappers for candy and other food products. Large packaging protection products such as aluminized shipping bags, pallet covers, food cart covers, and medical bags have also been developed.