RTV Silicone Sealing Method for Component Interfaces

About this technology

Overview

Innovators at NASA Johnson Space Center have developed a method using low-viscosity RTV silicone to form durable seals between polymer bladder and metal bulkhead interfaces to be used for inflatable space habitats. As NASA continues to research the viability of inflatable space habitats made with flexible materials, much consideration is given to reliably maintain pressurized environments for astronauts through the use of advanced seals. In early inflatable test articles, seals between bladder and bulkhead interfaces were achieved using a combination of O-rings and gaskets alone. However, when planning for long duration missions, there was a concern that the compressive force of an O-ring could create a line load on the bladder and cause potential failure of the bladder material and overall seal. An RTV silicone sealing method was developed as a solution to this problem, and works with an arrangement of O-rings and gaskets that act as a dam to form a channel that maintains the placement of the RTV silicone. The RTV silicone sealing method may have commercial applications here on Earth as it can yield a cure-in-place seal that can form-fits to a complex channel. This sealing method has a technology readiness level (TRL) 5 (Component and/or breadboard validation in relevant environment) and is now available for patent licensing. Please note that NASA does not manufacture products itself for commercial sale.