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Advanced Electrically Conductive Paint Solutions: MLS-85-SB-C Material Guide for Critical Applications

May 29, 2025

Advanced Electrically Conductive Paint Solutions: MLS-85-SB-C Material Guide for Critical Applications
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Key Points

  • MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint combines thermal control and static dissipation in a single coating system designed for extreme environments
  • The material operates reliably across temperatures from -180°C to 600°C (-292°F to 1112°F) with atomic oxygen resistance for space applications
  • Surface resistivity of ~10⁵ Ω/sq provides controlled static dissipation while maintaining high thermal emittance (0.91) and solar absorptance (0.98)
  • Space heritage includes successful 9-month orbital exposure testing, validating long-term performance in Low Earth Orbit environments
  • Versatile application methods include spray and brush techniques with no special environmental controls required during processing
Definition

What is MLS-85-SB-C?

MLS-85-SB-C is a specialized electrically conductive paint that combines a silicone binder with conductive pigments to provide both thermal control and static dissipation capabilities in extreme environments ranging from -180°C to 600°C (-292°F to 1112°F). The coating features atomic oxygen resistance for space applications, high thermal emittance (0.91) and solar absorptance (0.98), with controlled surface resistivity (~10⁵ Ω/sq) making it ideal for aerospace, optical systems, and precision instrumentation requiring reliable performance in harsh operational conditions.

When aerospace engineers need a coating that delivers both thermal control and electrical conductivity in extreme environments, material selection becomes mission-critical. The MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint represents a specialized solution engineered for applications where traditional coatings fail, from Low Earth Orbit satellites to precision optical instruments.

This comprehensive material guide examines the technical specifications, application parameters, and performance characteristics that make MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint an essential solution for engineers working on space-qualified systems, optical instruments, and thermal management applications.

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Visit the Resource Center: Advanced Coatings for Aerospace Optics

Core Performance Specifications That Define Excellence

MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint combines advanced silicone binder technology with specialized conductive pigments to deliver exceptional performance across multiple engineering disciplines. The coating's unique formulation addresses the complex requirements of applications demanding both thermal control and static dissipation capabilities.

The material's standout characteristics include remarkable temperature stability, atomic oxygen resistance for space applications, and consistent optical properties that remain stable across varying environmental conditions. These properties make it particularly valuable for engineers designing systems that must perform reliably in harsh operational environments.

Core Technical Specifications

Property

Specification

Engineering Significance

Surface Resistivity~10⁵ Ω/sqProvides controlled static dissipation
Thermal Emittance (ε_t)0.91 ± 0.02Excellent heat rejection capability
Solar Absorptance (α_s)0.98 ± 0.01Superior solar energy absorption
Operating Temperature-180°C to 600°C (-292°F to 1112°F)Extreme temperature stability
Adhesion Grade≥3A (ASTM D3359A)Reliable substrate bonding
Cure Time48-72 hoursComplete polymerization

These specifications demonstrate why MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint serves as a go-to solution for applications requiring both thermal management and electrical conductivity in a single coating system.

Space Environment Performance and Atomic Oxygen Resistance

Space applications present unique challenges that standard electrically conductive paint formulations cannot address. MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint incorporates atomic oxygen resistance capabilities essential for Low Earth Orbit operations, where traditional coatings degrade rapidly under AO flux exposure.

The coating's space heritage includes flight testing aboard the Optical Properties Monitor (OPM), which returned after nine months of orbital exposure with maintained optical and electrical properties. This real-world validation provides engineers with confidence in long-term performance for satellite and spacecraft applications.

Definition: AO flux exposure

AO flux exposure refers to the bombardment of materials by highly reactive atomic oxygen atoms present in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), typically at altitudes between 180-650 km where molecular oxygen is broken down by solar radiation. This exposure causes rapid degradation and erosion of many materials, particularly organic compounds and polymers, making AO resistance a critical requirement for spacecraft and satellite components operating in LEO environments.

For Geosynchronous Earth Orbit applications, MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint offers proven reliability without the atomic oxygen exposure concerns present in LEO environments. The coating's thermal control characteristics make it particularly effective for satellite thermal management systems requiring static dissipation capabilities.

Engineers should note that while MLS-85-SB-C demonstrates AO resistance, limited testing data means application-specific evaluation remains recommended for mission-critical deployments.

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Read the guide: Optical and Thermal Coatings in Aerospace

Application Methods and Processing Considerations

MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint offers versatile application methods suited to various manufacturing environments and substrate geometries. Spray application provides optimal results for achieving specified optical and thermal properties, while brush application remains viable for specialized geometries or repair operations.

The coating's silicone binder system eliminates the controlled temperature and humidity requirements typical of many specialty coatings. This processing advantage reduces manufacturing complexity and allows application in standard production environments without specialized environmental controls.

Application Parameters for Optimal Performance:

  • Spray Application: Recommended for achieving specification-grade optical properties
  • Brush Application: Suitable for complex geometries with potential property variations
  • Substrate Compatibility: Excellent adhesion to metals, ceramics, and composites
  • Environmental Controls: No special temperature/humidity requirements during application
  • Thickness Control: Target 3.0 mils (+1.0, -1.5) for optimal performance

The low outgassing characteristics of MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint make it particularly suitable for vacuum system applications where contamination control is paramount.

Why Partner with Modus for MLS-85-SB-C Application Excellence

The specialized nature of MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint requires manufacturing expertise that goes beyond standard coating application capabilities. Modus Advanced brings the precision engineering and quality systems essential for achieving optimal performance from this advanced material system.

Our vertically integrated approach ensures proper application technique selection, whether your project requires spray application for specification-grade optical properties or brush application for complex geometries. Our engineering team understands the critical relationship between application method and final performance characteristics, preventing costly rework or performance compromises.

 

Modus Application Advantages:

  • Engineering Expertise: Our team includes materials engineers who understand the relationship between application parameters and final coating performance
  • Quality Systems: AS9100 and ISO 9001 certifications ensure consistent application processes and documentation for aerospace applications
  • Controlled Environment: Our facilities maintain the stable conditions necessary for optimal coating cure and performance
  • Contamination Control: Clean room capabilities and low-outgassing protocols essential for vacuum system and optical applications

The combination of our advanced manufacturing capabilities and deep understanding of specialty coating requirements makes Modus Advanced the obvious choice for critical MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint applications where performance cannot be compromised.

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Design Integration for Thermal Management Systems

Thermal engineers working with MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint benefit from its exceptional thermal emittance properties that facilitate effective heat rejection in both space and terrestrial applications. The coating's 0.91 ± 0.02 thermal emittance provides reliable heat dissipation performance across the full operating temperature range.

Solar absorptance characteristics of 0.98 ± 0.01 enable efficient solar energy absorption for applications requiring controlled thermal input. This combination of high absorptance and emittance makes MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint ideal for thermal control surfaces requiring precise energy balance management.

The nonspecular optical black finish minimizes reflective interference in optical systems while maintaining the electrical conductivity necessary for static charge dissipation. This dual functionality eliminates the need for separate coatings in many system designs.

Engineers designing satellite thermal control systems particularly value the coating's ability to maintain stable thermal properties throughout orbital temperature cycling from -180°C to 600°C (-292°F to 1112°F).

Electrical Conductivity for Static Dissipation Applications

The controlled surface resistivity of approximately 10⁵ Ω/sq positions MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint in the optimal range for static dissipation applications. This resistivity level provides effective charge dissipation without creating short-circuit risks in sensitive electronic systems.

Electronics enclosure applications benefit from the coating's ability to prevent static charge accumulation while maintaining the nonconductive characteristics necessary for component protection. The consistent resistivity across temperature extremes ensures reliable static control performance throughout operational temperature ranges.

Static Dissipation Performance Characteristics:

  • Controlled Resistivity: 10⁵ Ω/sq nominal for predictable charge dissipation
  • Temperature Stability: Maintained electrical properties across full temperature range
  • Surface Uniformity: Consistent conductivity across coated surfaces
  • Long-term Reliability: Stable electrical properties over extended service life

Precision optical instruments require static control without compromising optical performance, making MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint an ideal solution for baffle coatings and internal optical component surfaces.

Optical System Applications and Performance Benefits

Optical engineers specify MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint for applications requiring both superior light absorption and static dissipation capabilities. The coating's nonspecular black finish eliminates unwanted reflections while maintaining the electrical conductivity necessary for charge control in sensitive optical systems.

Baffle coating applications particularly benefit from the material's combination of high solar absorptance and thermal emittance, which enables effective stray light control with built-in thermal management. The coating's space-qualified formulation makes it suitable for both ground-based and orbital optical systems.

Internal optical component applications leverage the low outgassing characteristics essential for maintaining optical clarity in vacuum systems. The coating's atomic oxygen resistance ensures long-term performance in space-based optical instruments without degradation concerns.

Telescope and imaging system designers value the coating's ability to maintain consistent optical properties across extreme temperature variations encountered in space and high-altitude applications.

Engineering Your Next Critical Application

MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint delivers the specialized performance characteristics essential for applications where standard coatings cannot meet the demanding requirements of space environments, precision optics, and thermal management systems. The material's proven space heritage, combined with its versatile application methods and stable properties across extreme temperatures, makes it an invaluable solution for engineers developing next-generation systems.

The coating's unique combination of thermal control, electrical conductivity, and environmental resistance addresses multiple engineering challenges in a single material system. This multifunctional capability reduces system complexity while ensuring reliable performance in mission-critical applications.

At Modus Advanced, our engineering team understands the critical nature of material selection for aerospace, defense, and precision optical applications. Our expertise in advanced coating applications, combined with our AS9100 and ITAR certifications, ensures your MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint applications meet the highest quality and security standards.

Partner with us to accelerate your development timeline while maintaining the uncompromising quality standards your applications demand. Contact our engineering team today to discuss how MLS-85-SB-C electrically conductive paint can solve your most challenging thermal and electrical design requirements.

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