Polyimide Resins Resist Extreme Temperatures

About this technology

Overview

To combat the high temperatures in aerospace applications, Dr. Ruth Pater of Langley Research Center developed RP-46, a polyimide resin capable of withstanding the most brutal temperatures while still being lightweight (less than half the weight of aluminum), chemical and moisture resistant, strong, and flexible. Designed as an environmentally friendly alternative to other high-temperature resins, the RP-46 polyimide resin system was awarded a 1992 R&D 100 award, named a 2001 NASA Technology of the Year, and later, due to its success as a spinoff technology, 2004 NASA Commercial Invention of the Year. Unitech LLC of Hampton, Virginia, received a nonexclusive license from NASA for commercialization of the material and it is now in widespread industrial use.