Technology Applications Inc (TAI) is developing advanced technology solutions for cryogenic and thermal management systems. The firm has developed hollow microscopic glass bubbles, called CryoSphere, that are light, strong, free flowing, noncorrosive and combine in a single material. When used as an insulating material, CryoSpheres exhibit an optimal combination of thermal performance, physical characteristics, cost, weight, durability, and low maintenance. The material has been proven as a better alternative than current cryogenic grade perlite insulation and cheaper to install/maintain than multi layer insulation (MLI). NASA studies have shown an improvement of up to 51% in thermal performance over perlite and less thermal conductance than MLI at degraded vacuum levels. CryoSpheres have a fluid-like behavior that fills voids and will not compact while in use, reducing boil off and eliminating the need to re-insulate, offering a solution for many of the problems affecting cryogenic production, transportation and storage. CryoSpheres physical characteristics allow them to be easily used as a direct replacement for perlite as OEM insulation of new tanks and refurbishment of existing tanks containing perlite. In the case of MLI, they require far less costly monitoring, vacuum maintenance and installation costs. When compared to perlite, maintenance costs are reduced greatly as well, because CryoSpheres are noncorrosive, does not compact, require no top-off or re-insulation, and assist in vacuum retention.
