Organic fabrics like linen and cotton were originally used for covering airframes but transitioned to which process?

The transition from using organic fabrics like linen and cotton for covering airframes to nitrate doping represents a significant advancement in aircraft construction and durability. Nitrate doping involves treating the fabric with a nitrocellulose-based dopant, which enhances the fabric's strength and resistance to deterioration from environmental factors such as moisture and UV rays. This process creates a lightweight, durable surface that maintains its integrity better than untreated organic fabrics.

Nitrate doping was particularly valuable in the early days of aviation when weight savings and aerodynamic efficiency were crucial. It provided not just enhanced strength but also improved the fabric's performance characteristics, which are essential for maintaining the integrity of an airframe during flight. Overall, this method ensured that aircraft covered with doped fabrics were not only lighter but also had improved longevity and resistance to wear and tear compared to the traditional organic materials.