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Completed TRL 4 (started at 3, targeting 4)
NASA roadmaps for fuel cell power systems identify reliability and operating life as key needs to meet mission architecture requirements for human exploration and ISRU. This effort builds on previous reliability developments (passive flow-thru and non- flow-thru fuel cell reactant design) by eliminating the wearing parts and control complexity associated with fuel cell system thermal management.
This integration broadly improves reliability and operating life by removing pumps and control valves/devices and electronics from thermal management subsystem. Reduces control complexity through inherently temperature dependent material behaviors (Shape memory alloy actuates between 50C and 70C). Improves mission flexibility (survive night, direct solar, permanent shadow) via high thermal turndown.
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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.
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