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Inorganic-Organic Hybrid Materials: Diacetylene-Siloxanes as Radiation Resistant Electrical Insulators for Plasma Fusion Confinement Systems--Eltron Research, Inc., 4600 Nautilus Court South, Boulder, CO  80301-3241; 303-530-0263

Dr. Craig L. Homrighausen, Principal Investigator, eltron@eltronresearch.com

Ms. Eileen E. Sammells, Business Official, sammells@eltronresearch.com

DOE Grant No. DE-FG03-01ER83235

Amount:  $749,998

Composite electrical insulation systems for superconducting magnet coils used in fusion reactors typically include epoxy matrix materials.  These epoxy resins must exhibit excellent processing characteristics (low viscosity and long working life), mechanical and electrical strength, and radiation tolerance, including low radiation-induced gas evolution rates.  Historically, radiation resistant polymers have not exhibited suitable processing characteristics for fabrication of large magnet structures.  This project will develop, characterize, and demonstrate a new resin system for cryogenic radiation applications.  Phase I investigated diacetylene-siloxane polymeric systems for processing characteristics, radiation tolerance, and mechanical performance.  Several polymer compositions were prepared and evaluated to determine their radiation-induced gas evolution rate, processing characteristics, and composite mechanical performance.  Phase II will synthesize, characterize, and develop a new inorganic-organic polymeric system based on diacetylene-siloxanes for use in fabrication of glass fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites.  These composites are used as electrical insulators for superconducting magnet coils in fusion reactors.  The effects of radiation, including electron, gamma, and neutron exposures on composite properties will be evaluated.

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee:  Applications of the resin systems include electrical insulation for cryogenic superconducting magnet systems (particularly those subjected to irradiation), cryogenic and high-temperature composite structures fabricated by liquid impregnation methods, automotive components and parts, aerospace equipment, and industrial belts and hoses.