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Solvay and Avio SpA have signed a long-term agreement for the supply of composite and adhesive materials for use across a range of projects including the Vega space program, the European Space Agency’s satellite launch vehicles designed to send payloads into low Earth orbit.

Solvay will supply Avio with ablative material, RTM resins, and adhesives. Solvay has a strong legacy in the space market and has long been a leader in ablative materials for space applications such as nozzles and exit cones. Its products have been used across many space launch programs over the years, thanks to their ability to withstand the extremely high temperatures produced by the rocket motor exhaust.

Avio has more than 50 years of history designing, developing, producing, and integrating space launchers for placing institutional, governmental, and commercial payloads in Earth orbit through its Vega rocket family.

“We are excited to extend our partnership with industry leader Avio and continue to support Vega critical missions,” explained Carmelo Lo Faro, President of Solvay’s Materials Segment. “We are all currently seeing renewed enthusiasm and investment in the global space race, and we believe that our advanced materials will be key enablers for space exploration, space tourism, and also the launch placement of satellite constellations. We helped put the first man on the moon and will be there for the first woman on Mars!”

“The long-term agreement strengthens the relationship between our companies,” added Sergio Colabucci, Avio Procurement Director. “It also secures the supply to Avio of strategic products for Vega family launchers in the upcoming years, when the demand of launchers to place satellites into low Earth orbit is expected to increase.”