Thermal Transport Characterization of Phase-Change Material (PCM) Infused in Annular Passage Filled with Additively Manufactured Metal Foam Obtained Through Octet-Shaped Unit Cell Reticulation Under Micro-gravity Conditions

The Thermal Transport Characterization of PCM Infused in Annular Passage Filled with Additively Manufactured Metal Foam (AAMF) project aims to design, model, and test a novel phase change material (PCM) that combines high heat absorption of phase change material with high thermal conductivity of Octet-shaped metal foams. The research aims to enhance the fundamental understanding of phase change processes under micro-gravity conditions, and to address the PCM incorporation challenges through PCM infused in high thermal conductivity fibers arranged in an Octet-shape and fabricated through metal additive manufacturing.

Thermal energy storage systems based on phase change materials (PCM) are promising technologies for space thermal control. The Thermal Transport Characterization of PCM Infused in Annular Passage Filled with Additively Manufactured Metal Foam (AAMF) project aims to enhance the fundamental understanding of phase change phenomena under microgravity conditions, both in the presence and absence of the saturated porous media. Additively manufactured metal foams offer tunable porosity, enhanced permeability, improved thermal characteristics, and robust mechanical properties. This has the potential to benefit NASA missions and the commercial space industry.

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