1,760
°C
MAX TEMPERATURE
3,200°F
0.10
W/m·K
THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY
0.39
KG/M³
DENSITY
25-50 mm
THICKNESS
TYPICAL
10.0 kg/m²
KG/M²
MASS PER AREA
2
VEHICLES
PROTECTED
THERMAL RATING
TUFROC is a refractory composite thermal protection system by NASA Ames Research Center. Rated to 1,760°C. Status: Active.
ABOUT TUFROC
TUFROC (Toughened Uni-piece Fibrous Reinforced Oxidation-resistant Composite) is a dual-layer thermal protection material developed by NASA Ames. The outer cap is a tough carbonaceous material resistant to impact and oxidation, while the inner insulation layer is a low-density fibrous material. TUFROC is designed for the leading edges of next-generation reusable vehicles.
THERMAL PROPERTIES
Material TypeRefractory Composite
Max Temperature1,760°C (3,200°F)
Thermal Conductivity0.10 W/m·K
AblativeNo
ReusableYes
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Density0.39 kg/m³
Thickness25-50 mm
Mass per Area10.0 kg/m² kg/m²
COMPOSITION
Carbon/SiC outer cap over AETB or FRCI fibrous insulation base
VEHICLES USING TUFROC
X-37B
Next-gen reusable vehicles (development)
MISSION HISTORY
First MissionX-37B (reported)
First FlightApril 22, 2010
ManufacturerNASA Ames Research Center
StatusActive
OTHER REFRACTORY COMPOSITE TPS
