Cryogenic Insulation Systems

High-performance thermal protection for propellant tanks (LH2, LOX, LCH4). We provide sprayed, bonded, and multi-layer insulation solutions to provide thermal control, minimize boil-off and ensure structural integrity.

Download our brochure

Mastering Thermal Control for Launchers

Launchers operate under extreme thermal constraints, requiring advanced insulation to maintain propellants at cryogenic temperatures. Air Liquide provides comprehensive insulation solutions for liquid hydrogen (LH2), liquid oxygen (LOX), and liquid methane (LCH4) tanks and lines. Our technologies allow for application on both external surfaces and critical internal sections, such as common bulkheads, ensuring optimal flight performance.

Versatile Thermal Protection Technologies

We offer a range of insulation technologies adapted to specific mission profiles and launcher architectures. Our solutions are capable of withstanding aerodynamic heating while minimizing cryogenic boil-off.

  • Injected or Sprayed Foam: robust thermal protection applied directly to tank structures.
  • Multi-Layer Insulation (MLI): High-efficiency radiative barriers for orbital stages.
  • Open Foams: Specialized materials for specific thermal management needs.

Our processes allow for insulation to be bonded or projected onto tanks and cryogenic lines. Unique capabilities include the application on internal surfaces, critical for managing thermal transfers in common bulkhead tank designs.

A Standard for European Launchers

Our insulation solutions are the industry standard for European heavy lift vehicles. We have successfully insulated all LH2 and LOX tanks for the Ariane 5 program.

This heritage continues with the Ariane 6 program, where we provide thermal protection for all tanks.

Innovating for Future Architectures

We have contributed to the HX CNES demonstrator and the CNES Cryofenix launcher, validating new insulation concepts for future reusable vehicles. Our ability to handle complex internal insulation for common bulkheads positions us as a key partner for compact, high-efficiency launcher designs.

Download our brochure

Our Launchers cryogenic equipment & technologies

  • Insulated & equipped cryogenic tanks
    Advanced insulated cryogenic tanks for space launchers (LH2, LOX, LCH4). Design authority for Ariane 6 and 800+ flight models delivered for Ariane overall.
    Read more
  • Liquid Helium Sub System (SSHeL)
    High-performance liquid helium (LHe) storage for launcher pressurization. Aluminum double-wall vacuum insulated technology with 120+ flight models delivered.
    Read more
  • Propellant Management Devices (PMD)
    Advanced propellant management devices for space launchers (LH2, LOX, LCH4). Anti-vortex & anti-sloshing systems qualified for Ariane 1-6.
    Read more
  • Cryogenic Level Gauges
    High-precision capacitive level gauges for space launchers (LH2, LOX, LCH4). Flight-proven technology for Ariane.
    Read more
  • Cryogenic lines
    High-performance cryogenic lines for space launchers (LH2, LOX, LHe). Custom aluminum or stainless steel designs with 140+ references for Ariane 6.
    Read more

Our Space Technologies solutions

See our technologies

Contact us

Send a message