/sci/ - Science & Math

https://arstechnica.com/space/2024/01/sierra-space-is-blowing-up-stuff-to-prove-inflatable-habitats-are-safe/

> The LIFE habitat's inflatable shell is primarily made of a material called Vectran. "This is a material which gives you high strength and low elasticity," Buckley said.
>According to Kuraray, a Japanese manufacturer of specialty chemicals, fibers, and resins, Vectran is a "high-performance multifilament yarn spun from liquid crystal polymer." Pound for pound, Vectran is five times stronger than steel and 10 times stronger than aluminum, Kuraray says on its website.
>Technicians mold the Vectran into straps, which are woven together to give the pressure shell the strength it needs to hold pressure in space, Buckley said. A series of threads, stitches, and tapes also make up the structure.