99.99% silica purity
High-purity fused silica yarn provides the foundation for the fabric’s electrical and thermal properties.
Astroquartz®
High-purity fused silica fabrics with low dielectric properties, mechanical strength, and exceptional thermal performance.
High-purity silica fabric developed for aerospace
JPS created the Astroquartz® line in 1964 to support NASA’s Gemini and Apollo missions. Woven from 99.99% pure fused silica yarn, these fabrics combine electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties for aerospace and industrial applications. Today, Astroquartz® supports aircraft connectivity, shielding for orbital and Martian explorers, and protection for temperature-sensitive components exposed to the heat of reentry.
Astroquartz® performance characteristics
Low dielectric constant
Electrical performance supports radomes, antenna systems, and high-frequency electronics.
High-temperature resistance
Fused silica fabrics support thermal shielding and insulation in demanding environments.
Dimensional stability
A low coefficient of thermal expansion helps maintain dimensions during thermal cycling.
Astroquartz® fabrics and product forms
Astroquartz® II and III
Astroquartz® II and III are the flagship silica fabrics at JPS. Their different filament diameters provide options for application-specific requirements.
- Astroquartz® II: 9-micron filament diameter
- Astroquartz® III: 14-micron filament diameter
- Low dielectric constant, high strength, and thermal reliability
Additional product forms
The Astroquartz® family extends beyond woven cloth to support composite reinforcement and specialized insulation needs.
- Chopped fiber for reinforced plastics and nonwoven composites
- Continuous-filament roving and high-purity yarn
- PTFE-coated sewing thread for high-temperature applications
- Silica fiber mat with a polyvinyl alcohol binder
Controlled weaving and finishing
Yarn preparation, slashing, and weaving produce fabric to the required pattern and specifications. A coupling-agent finish improves resin wet-out and the fabric-to-resin interface.
- Standard finishes developed for Astroquartz® performance
- Specialty finishes for custom applications
- AMS 3846 fabric options for aerospace requirements
Let us design a fabric for you.
Contact JPS to discuss material selection, fabric construction, and finishes.