Composite Systems and Materials

Laser Oxidation Analysis Facilities (BLOX)

BLOX facilities at Palaiseau center

The laser oxidation analysis facilities (BLOX) are used for measurements and tests in the field of high temperature materials, under varied atmospheres :

• Thermal characterization of materials at high temperature in controlled atmosphere (Air, O2, N2, Ar, CO2, water steam, H2 …)

• Thermal cycling in controlled atmosphere

• Materials characterization under intense, continuous or impulse heat flux

General diagram of a BLOX

Main features of the BLOX facilities :

• Use of high power laser to achieve temperatures of 2000°C in oxidizing atmosphere

• Tests conducted in sealed cold wall chambers to prevent any contamination of the test atmosphere, at pressures ranging from a few millbars to several bars

• Very low thermal inertia to allow temperature cycling at high frequency and very rapid temperature rises

Last Update: 5 May 2006 - © ONERA 2009 - Terms of use