CRYOGENIC EMISSIVITY PROPERTIES OF BALL INFRARED BLACK

Ball Aerospace and Technologies Corporation (BATC) developed a unique thermal control coating named Ball InfraRed Black (TM) (BIRB (TM)). The coating generates a highly diffuse surface with a large effective surface area ideal for thermal radiative applications. Independent testing demonstrates excellent emissivity properties across the cryogenic region, especially at temperatures <50K where other products tend to roll off. Emissivity in this region exceeds that of other commercially available thermal control coatings. The proprietary coating was developed for use on spacecraft thermal radiators, but also has application to terrestrial cryogenic and vacuum systems. The coating is qualified for spaceflight, demonstrating outstanding adhesion after thermal cycling and vibration testing. Critical material properties for BIRB (TM) are characterized. BIRB (TM) is durable and cleanable with proper handling. BIRB (TM) has the additional benefit of being static-dissipative, making it ideal for direct exposure to the space environment. Additionally, contamination control properties are optimized, achieving low total outgassing rates and demonstrating particle cleanliness to meet stringent requirements for optical instruments. Thermal systems realize enhanced performance and/or substantial mass savings by applying BIRB (TM) to the radiator surface. To date, BIRB (TM) has been applied to several large cryogenic radiators for use on space-based thermal control systems.