STUDIES OF THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL ASPECTS OF THE DESIGN OF MATERIALS LIGHTER THAN AIR

This paper discusses some theoretical aspects of the design of ultralight materials. Potential application of syntactic foams in the fabrication of composites lighter than air is also analyzed. Carbon allotropic forms (fullerenes, colossal carbon tubes) and some non-carbon matters are considered as components of ultralight composites. Calculations for the size of fullerenes, the number of carbon atoms in their structure and thickness of reinforcing phase are presented. It is concluded that 3D carbon molecules (fullerenes) and colossal carbon tubes are the most promising components for design of ultralight metallic materials which can be lighter than air.

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