Localized radiation-induced damage mitigation in metal-nanomaterial composites with high aspect ratio pathways

To achieve the desired larger, longer, and farther space missions NASA has planned, an extremely energy dense, intrinsically safe, and locally repairable power system must be designed. Currently, the leading candidate technology to fit this role is nuclear power systems. However, even current state-of-the-art systems fail to meet the key operational requirements that these missions dictate. By switching the material and manufacturing system used in a nuclear reactor, from a classical manufacturing process to one made by additive or advanced manufacturing, we can achieve the repairability needs. Furthermore, advanced manufacturing techniques including additive allows for easier creation of novel metal-composite materials with increased resistance to radiation induced damage thereby increasing the durability of the material and the inherent safety of the built reactor. Recent findings have shown that nanostructured additives (such as carbon nanotubes) in traditionally manufactured metals and alloys can drastically increase radiation resistance at low fraction additions (<2 wt.%), as well as improve mechanical and thermal properties. Our project will build up the local expertise and laboratory capabilities to pursue such novel metal-nanocomposite materials by assessing and using an array of advanced manufacturing techniques. We will perform extensive ion beam irradiation experiments, including single-beam, dual-beam, and in-situ experiments, to determine the effects of carbon nanotubes on a metal’s radiation resistance. We will also utilize advanced machine learning techniques to assist and accelerate the analysis of the characterization data.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 2) — 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.