Blueshift’s AeroZero® AZ-FTB Shines in UL 2596 Torch and Grit Test
Blueshift, a leading thermal protection system (TPS) developer, has announced that its AeroZero® Flame and Thermal Barrier (AZ-FTB) successfully completed all ten cycles of the UL 2596 Torch and Grit Test (TaG).
The accomplishment makes it one of the first thin-profile thermal protection materials to demonstrate such extreme resistance, setting a new standard in preventing thermal runaway in electric aerospace applications.
UL 2596 standard, Test Method for Thermal and Mechanical Performance of Battery Enclosure Materials – Torch and Grit Test, identifies a material's resistance to explosive and grinding events in battery enclosures.
The test subjects the material to severe conditions by subjecting it to direct flame (~15 seconds) and alumina grit (~5 seconds) in alternating cycles up to a maximum of ten repetitions.
A passing test indicates the capacity of a material to resist the intense heat and mechanical stress that are likely to exist in a thermal runaway event in high-performance battery systems.
Blueshift's AeroZero® AZ-FTB resisted all ten 20-second cycles of up to 1200 °C flame temperatures and 3 kW energy ratings. There were no breaches or failures in any sample tested, despite being light and ultra-thin material.
This establishes its strength and performance under severe stress conditions, which are necessary for safety in aerospace electric applications.
Dr Lawino Kagumba, VP Applications and Research at Blueshift, commented:
“This marks a significant accomplishment for Blueshift as one of the first companies to produce a thin profile and lightweight material capable of withstanding all 10 cycles of the challenging UL Torch and Grit test. This is a testament to our material’s unique capabilities and its potential to transform how design engineers approach battery module design.”
The testing was conducted at UL Solutions' Northbrook lab in Illinois to address increasing industry demand for safer, more resilient energy storage systems. With the electrification of aviation underway, there is an increasing need for high-performance materials that offer protection and design freedom.
Blueshift's achievement highlights its position as a game-changer within the aerospace materials sector, with AeroZero® AZ-FTB poised to provide for next-generation electric aircraft development through the resolution of inherent safety and performance concerns.
