Aerospace

On July 4, 1997, the Mars Pathfinder made its historic landing on the surface of Mars, cushioned by airbags made of VECTRAN^™ fiber. The low-temperature performance, flex fatigue and abrasion resistance, and tensile strength of VECTRAN^™ were all key considerations in the material selection process.

VECTRAN^™ is also used for tethers and strength members in other aerospace applications. In addition to robust mechanical performance, the minimal off- and out-gassing characteristics of the fiber are desirable for high vacuum and space applications.

Key Benefits

• Low CTE
• Thermal properties, including low-temperature performance
• Low off-gassing and out-gassing characteristics
• Flex fatigue resistance

Applications

• Inflatable system (e.g., space habitats)
• Actuator cords for remote deployment systems
• Safety restraints, tie-downs, cable harnesses, and lacing tapes
• Lifting/lower system bridle and tethers (e.g., sky crane)