Which material reportedly offered better containment than paper for a given weight during larger, significant experiments?
Answer
Silk
When transitioning from small trials to constructing larger envelopes necessary for sustained flight, the material science challenge demanded a lighter yet more durable container. While paper was cheap and readily available due to their family business, it suffered from high permeability, allowing the hot air to escape quickly, and it was vulnerable to burning. Silk was reportedly utilized in some of the larger, more significant experimental builds because it provided superior containment characteristics relative to its weight compared to basic paper, even though its expense presented a practical limitation for massive scale-up.
Related Questions
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