Characterization tests of paint for use in a launch vehicle

Abstract

The coating of a launch vehicle fulfills multiple functions, but two of them stand out in particular: protectionagainst corrosion of the materials comprising the vehicle's structure, and thermal control during the ramp timeat the launch pad.To select the most suitable coating, a testing campaign was conducted. During this stage, efforts were madeto ensure compatibility with various substrates, evaluate adhesion, measure corrosion resistance through saltspray tests, analyze chemical compatibility with interacting liquids (such as liquid oxygen and RP1), and verifyresistance to exposure temperatures through thermal cycling.Subsequently, procedures and facilities were implemented with the aim of achieving the simplest and mostcost-effective application of the coating on the different vehicle modules. This approach was adopted tooptimize resources and ensure the effectiveness of the coating process.Through the testing campaign and the implementation of appropriate procedures and facilities, significantprogress was made in the selection and application of the most suitable coating to meet the requirements ofcorrosion protection and thermal control in the launch vehicle.