High Emissivity Surface Micro-Structuring

This NASA SBIR Phase I proposal presents a novel method to achieve high emissivity, with a femtosecond (fs) fiber laser. It is the enabling technology for manufacturing high temperature, high strength, and high emissivity surface for electric propulsion components. With our successful history in laser processing, this proposal has a great potential to succeed. A proof of concept demonstration will be carried out and samples will be delivered at the end of Phase 1.Prototypes with various types of components in compliant with the NASA electric propulsion system requirement will be delivered at the end of Phase II.

In addition to NASA’s high emissivity surface manufacturing, the proposed short pulse high power fiber laser SM process can also be used in other applications, such as 3D printing, space vehicle, aircraft, and satellite manufacturing. PolarOnyx will develop a series of products to meet various requirements for commercial/military deployments.

Material processing, which includes Photonic device fabrications; metal processing; semiconductor and microelectronics manufacturing; marking of all materials; rapid prototyping, desktop manufacturing, micromachining, photofinishing. 3D printing. The global market for 3D Printing is projected to reach US$44 billion by the year 2025. Medical devices and biomedical instrumentation.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.