Akron divided her gas cells between two fabric systems. Rubberized cotton was heavier than traditional goldbeater's skin but cheaper and considered more durable. The experimental cotton fabric impregnated with a gelatin-latex compound cost more than rubberized cotton while weighing less than goldbeater's skin. Its success led to Macon using the experimental material for all her gas cells.
Notable Point · 45:22-48:35
Gas-cell fabrics traded weight against cost
Akron tested two alternatives to traditional goldbeater's skin, balancing fabric weight, cost, and durability before Macon adopted the lighter material throughout.