[Balloon-makers] Revolutionary Material

[Kyle Kepley]

Here's some exciting new Aerogel based materials coming down the pike that 
may eventually find its way into balloon construction.  The insulation 
properties are amazing, which could result in very fuel efficient hot air 
balloons and even make steam balloons viable.

http://www.defensetechbriefs.com/component/content/article/5164

http://www.aerogel.com/markets/industrial.html

This stuff has the insulation properties of a space shuttle tile.  It's 10 
times more insulative than fiberglass wall insulation and is extremely 
light weight!  Imagine a double-wall balloon with a layer of this stuff 
sandwiched in between.  All kinds of new HAB records would be set.  An 
Aerogel HAB might be more like flying a gas balloon.

-Kyle

 
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