Anti-seize, Radiation-resistant, Ultralight Joints and Trusses for In-Space Robotics and Assembly in Extreme Space Environment

Develop anti-seize, radiation-resistant, ultralight joints and trusses for in-space robotics and assembly (ISRA) in extreme environments in long-duration space missions. For the success of ISRA, it is important to develop adequate metal composites for joints and trusses, specifically tailored for space missions under extreme space environment. Current ISRA components are mostly metallic or metal matrix composites, but under ultrahigh vacuum in space, the surface of metals experiences “cold welding” that may endanger entire space missions. ISRA needs material stability and durability to withstand harsh space environment conditions without needing repair or replacement throughout long mission lifetimes. Enriched 10B-based nanomaterials are incorporated into ultralight metal matrices (ex. Al, Ti, and Mg aerospace alloys) by using advanced MMC processes.

The enriched BN MMCs offer high surface wear/corrosion resistance, low surface friction, low surface energy (self-cleaning), additional weight savings, enhanced mechanical properties (toughness, stiffness, and strength), and excellent thermal stability (>1400 oC) and thermal management (high thermal k), in addition to superior space radiation-resistant capability. Mechanical and tribological properties of the developed MMCs will be investigated in space environment conditions (vacuum, thermal cycling, and ionizing radiation).

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.