Propagation Controlled Solid Fuel-Oxidant Reactions for the Generation of Harvestable Heat

NASAs planetary science missions will demand advancements in power system technologies while the current state-of-the-art primary battery technology specific energy limits future mission times to days. An excellent option for space-based application is a solid-solid reaction where the fuel and the oxidant are contained in a structured engineered with a controlled burn rate and product evolution. These reactions propagate through a preheating mechanism. High thermal losses can result in cessation of reaction propagation. A solid chemical heat source which produces high exergy heat would enhance NASAs abilities to operate thermal generation centers on hot environments such as Venus, or alternatively provide the mission critical heat necessary for icy world explorations, or deep space exploration in addition to simultaneously providing electrical power. In order to advance chemical energy power systems, we will develop a multi-use solid pyrolant as an energy source which is a regulated solid mass self-propagating exothermic chemical reactions. The proposed work will build on existing knowledge of solid-state fuels to realize a controlled burn reactor. A thermal generator that can provide continuous power for 20 days without the use of radioactive materials will provide a valuable tool for short-term missions. Limiting the use of radio nuclei in heat sources will enhance personnel safety. Long-term missions will also benefit from the proposed solution. Additionally, selection of thermochemical reactions that also produce a useful product can be exploited to increase the scope of mission objectives.

This project will provide high energy density heat source for short missions 900-3600We·hr/kg, with increased safety, reusable and replenishable design will lower lifetime cost, enable technology for short-term missions with high power demands, and eliminate the need for a radioisotope source on short missions

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — 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.