Novel Concept of Advanced Thermal Protection Coating Based on Fullerenes

Abstract

Experimental study has been carried out to investigate thermal protection properties of thin fullerene coatings subjected to external heating. It was shown that due to low thermal conductivity and high emissivity, micron-scale fullerene films were capable of withstanding elevated temperatures (up to 800°C) resulting in over 100°C temperature decrease on the “cold” surface of the underlying substrate. Based on obtained results, practically important recommendations are made.