AM-2 Aloominum Matting is in use for testing at PaxRibber/Rubber VL pads (at last report was OK) with F-35B exhaust footprint similar to Harrier today.
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Aviation Week & Space Technology October 3,
2011 pages 31-32
Vertical Validation by GUY NORRIS
"...Vertical landings at Pax River have been conducted on two pads made from standard extruded AM-2 aluminum tile mats measuring 120 ft. and 150 ft. square, respectively.
“We’ve been recording the points on the pad where the nozzle is pointed and, after initial landings, removed the specific tile and tested it for strength. There was no loss of strength,” Wilson says. “Now we’re waiting for 10 vertical landings on one specific tile before we do the next strength test.” As of late September, fewer than half of the required number of landings on the particular tile had occurred. Overall, results of the testing to date “give no cause for concern for AM-2 compatibility,” Wilson says.
Additionally, ground personnel have gradually moved closer to the pad for each vertical landing, as part of systematic efforts to determine the safest proximity to the touchdown area. Wilson says that so far these tests indicate safe distances similar to those of current Harrier operations...."
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Continuing to “Work” the Problem By Ed Timperlake 30 Aug 2011
SLD Forum: Debating the Future
"...the USMC HQ specialist on the matter Major Brad Alello & he told us that “AM-2 matting has been used by the USMC since BEFORE the Vietnam War.”..."