Retroreflective Temperature- and Pressure-Sensitive Paints

About this technology

Overview

Pressure-sensitive paints (PSP) and temperature-sensitive paints (TSP) are widely used for surface measurement and flow visualization, yet their application prevents simultaneous schlieren-based visualization as the model on which they're applied obstructs schlieren line-of-sight and has separate optical access and alignment requirements. By making PSP/TSP surfaces exhibit retroreflective properties, methods such as self-aligned focusing schieren (SAFS), background-oriented schlieren (BOS), and shadowgraph could leverage the surface to provide a simultaneous off-body flow visualization capability. However, achieving desired accuracy, optical clarity, and retroreflective properties within conventional PSP systems depends on coating composition, surface preparation, and optical properties. This restricts flexibility in obtaining simultaneous on-body surface measurements and off-body flow visualization. To address these limitations, researchers at NASA Langley Research Center developed Retroreflective-Enhanced PSP/TSPs for Simultaneous Schlieren-Based Measurements. This solution enables simultaneous acquisition of surface measurements and schlieren imagery from a single optical access point across wider aerodynamic testing scenarios. The retroreflective-enhanced PSP/TSP enhances combined surface and flow field measurements with improved optical efficiency, making it a versatile tool for comprehensive aerodynamic testing and flow visualization.