Heat Capacities of Multilayer Insulation Materials

DSIAC was asked to deliver information regarding the specific heats of multilayer insulation materials (MLI) used in space adhesives. The inquirer was looking for the specific heats of a particular MLI and space adhesive over a temperature range of -150 °C to 250 °C (123 K to 523 K). In particular, the inquirer was asking for alternative schedule and cost-effective ways to determine specific heats of various materials. DSIAC searched open sources to find relevant information on determining heat capacity of MLI.  DSIAC subject matter experts  from Texas Research Institute (TRI) Austin and Johns Hopkins University Energetics Research Group provided additional information to the inquirer and a contact at NASA. The inquirer then decided to also send the materials in question off for differential scanning calorimetry and continued conversations with TRI Austin, who later compiled a brief report based on their discussions.