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Adaptation of an Ammonia Detecting Paint to Commerical ApplicationsAn ammonia-sensitive coating was developed in feasibility studies sponsored by Lockheed Engineering. The paint comprised a cellulosic binder, a dye, a family of solvents, and plasticizer. The resulting coating formulation proved to be very sensitive to trace levels of Lewis-bases and/or nucleophiles, but was limited to concentrations of approximately 1 ppm and higher. In the months following completion of this Lockheed project, efforts to perfect and optimize the paint formulation continued with internal funding. A unique sensitivity enhancing additive was identified and patented which when applied at concentrations of approximately 10% by weight, transcended the 1 ppm sensitivity barrier to fractional ppb. The paint composition was modified by the addition of certain proprietary agents, which promoted a much more intense yellow color in the coating and enhanced its durability in high-vacuum. Paint preparation is a simple one day procedure that can be completed using conventional equipment. Most of the materials are easily obtained.
Document ID
19960021781
Acquisition Source
Johnson Space Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Graef, Renee C.
(Southwest Research Inst. San Antonio, TX United States)
Mallow, William A.
(Southwest Research Inst. San Antonio, TX United States)
Date Acquired
August 17, 2013
Publication Date
May 1, 1994
Publication Information
Publication: Dual-Use Space Technology Transfer Conference and Exhibition
Volume: 1
Subject Category
Nonmetallic Materials
Accession Number
96N25056
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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