Solutions for Hot Situations

About this technology

Overview

NextelT Ceramic Textiles and Composites from 3MT offer space-age protection and innovative solutions for hot situations ranging from NASA to NASCAR. With superior thermal protection, Nextel fabrics, tape, and sleevings outperform other high-temperature textiles such as aramids, carbon, glass, and quartz, permitting engineers and manufacturers to handle applications up to 2500 oF (1371 oC). The stiffness and strength of Nextel Continuous Ceramic Fibers make them a great match for improving the rigidity of aluminum in metal matrix composites. Moreover, the fibers demonstrate low shrinkage at operating temperatures, which allow for the manufacturing of a dimensionally stable product. These novel fibers also offer excellent chemical resistance, low thermal conductivity, thermal shock resistance, low porosity, and unique electrical properties. The origins of Nextel Ceramic Textiles and Composites reach all the way back to the early days of the Space Shuttle program, when NASA scientists were tasked with improving high-temperature tiles and textiles to withstand the intense heat and pressures of reentry. Through research and testing, the ceramic fibers that are the framework for St. Paul, Minnesota-based 3M's Nextel technology proved to be suitable for use in the composition of the Shuttle's underbelly tiles.