Carbon Nano-Composite Ablative Rocket Nozzles, Phase I

The constantly evolving science of nanotechnology keeps coming around to old ideas re-tooled with new technologies. Though much work has been done examining the potential for nanotechnology to be used in ablative materials in a rocket nozzle, there have been relatively few testing opportunities of this application. Carbon nanofiber (CNF) composites have been identified as a lightweight and effective material that could be used in rocket motor applications. This technology when used in rocket nozzles could exhibit increased ablation resistance in the throat area and lower backside temperatures that would allow higher temperatures inside the nozzle. This could translate into a nozzle lighter in mass and higher in durability than conventional ablative nozzles. Benefits from this application could trickle across the board of high-temperature and dynamic pressure environments of different types of rocket motors.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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.