PTFE coated fiberglass “Beta Cloth”
Bron Aerotech supplies a premium PTFE-coated Beta Cloth designed for aerospace markets and applications. This low-outgassing, white PTFE-Coated Glass Cloth is an ideal passive thermal control solution, frequently used in critical space applications. Beta Cloth applications include Multi-Layer Insulation (MLI), Light Blocking, MMOD (micrometeoroid and orbital debris) shielding, and protection from harmful UV radiation and space plasma.
BA 500BC features a tight weave that provides resistance of the destructive effects of atomic oxygen in low-Earth orbit. BA 500BC is silicone free, maintaining performance in the harshest space environments, and is a trusted material used in Satellite, Launch Vehicle, Rovers, Space Habitats and Space Station interior and exterior surface protection applications.
Key Features of BA 500BC
- Low Outgassing: Necessary for sensitive components and equipment.
- Durable: Resists AO (atomic oxygen) in low Earth orbit (LEO).
- Thermal Protection: High performance for multi-layer insulation.
- UV & Plasma Shielding: Resists against radiation present in space.
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Silicone Free: Optimal for applications requiring high purity materials.
What is Beta Cloth?
Beta Cloth, also known as Beta Fabric, is a white, PTFE impregnated glass cloth recognized for its atomic oxygen (AO) resistance in low earth orbit (LEO). Beta Cloth is commonly used as an outer layer in multi-layer insulation blankets (MLIB) protecting against the stressful environmental conditions of space. Beta Fabric was heavily used on the Space Shuttle and continues to protect the interior and exterior of the International Space Station (ISS).
Beta cloth products are comprised of a high-performance PTFE (Teflon™) and glass composite used as a component for MLI (multi-layer insulation) blankets. Beta fabric is used as the outer layer, special design of the product provides the strength, resistance to flex fatigue and handle which sets it apart from other standard coated fabrics and makes it more suitable for space applications. This lightly coated, low outgassing material has a great deal of flight legacy being used in proximity to sensitive components and equipment. In many applications, some properties or values are diminished by end of life as the effects of thermocycling, atomic oxygen, solar ultraviolet radiation, vacuum ultraviolet radiation, and space debris attack the exposed surface. Beta cloth fabrics can withstand these harsh conditions, serving as a barrier and protecting the inner surface.
Beta cloth is a historic and high-performance material supplied exclusively to the aerospace market by Bron Aerotech, LLC, in Denver, Colorado.
As a leader in aerospace materials, Bron Aerotech played a pivotal role in the successful re-qualification of beta cloth at aerospace OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) when DuPont modified the Teflon formulation to reduce and eventually eliminate PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid).
Bron Aerotech is also proud to have supplied NASA (JPL) with beta cloth that continues to protect the nuclear power plant of the Curiosity Rover on Mars, 32 million miles away from Earth
Common Beta Cloth (Non-Silicone) End Products
- BA 500BC: Standard beta cloth that provides exceptional resistance to space conditions.
- BA 500BCGW: ESD version of Beta Cloth with a woven-in grid of graphite yarn to provide static dissipative performance.
- BA 500BCE: Etched on one side, great for bonding and laminating.
- Metalized (VDA) Beta Cloth
- Beta Cloth Tape: Slit to desired widths for cable and wire wrap applications in spacecraft and satellites.
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BA 500BC-966: Beta Cloth with low-outgassing adhesive, perfect for use in sensitive aerospace and space exploration applications.
Why Choose Bron Aerotech's Beta Cloth Products
- Used in NASA, satellites, rovers, and space stations.
- Tailored to meet the unique needs of your aerospace project.
- Ensures long-lasting protection against harsh space conditions, including atomic oxygen, UV radiation, and micrometeoroid impact.