Self-Adaptive Lubricants for Extreme Space Mechanism Applications

The research goal is to develop self-adaptive lubricant coatings for moving mechanical assemblies (MMAs), such as bearings, bushings, and gears, operating in extreme conditions. The successful operation of MMAs critically depends on adequate lubrication. Improper lubrication can lead to MMAs and overall mission failure. From Moon to Mars, surface conditions have wide temperature and atmospheric ranges. For example, the Moon has a very thin and tenuous atmosphere, where temperature varies from -232°C to 122°C. On Mars, the temperature can vary from -140°C to 30°C with high pressure up to 610 Pa, a carbon dioxide environment and a minor amount of water. Both Lunar and Martian atmospheres are harsh and dusty. Extended bearing life and lubrication systems in mechanical systems technology are desirable for long-duration Moon and Mars missions. The proposed research will support NASA missions by developing a self-adaptive solid lubricant coating that can provide adequate lubrication in both cryogenic and extreme environments. We hypothesize that taking advantage of preferential phase transformations that self-adaptive capability with improved performance for lubrication in the ceramic matrix can be achieved. It is expected that by controlling phase transformations by engineering the crystal chemistry and composition, we can engineer the lubrication performance of ceramic coatings over a wide temperature range. To address the various technical challenges associated with the development of the self-adaptive lubricating system, we have two research thrusts: A) Technology and Experimental Validation; and B) Modeling and Analytics. We also organized Bridge to Graduate School (Thrust C) to develop the workforce and increase student intake and retention in engineering for mission success. Through these thrusts, we will develop an experimentally validated approach as a viable lubrication technology to enable long-life MMAs, and will train students to become sophisticated, educated workers in aerospace, defense, and materials and manufacturing. This proposal will address the key factors for developing self-adaptive lubrication technology to support NASA’s short-, mid-, and long-term missions to the Moon and Mars, thus aligning with NASA and Nevada’s strategic plans. To do this, we will pursue the following objectives. (1) Via experiments, develop a self-lubricating composite coating, characterize its microstructure and friction and wear behavior, and test its feasibility for space applications. (2) Via detailed computational modeling, predict the phase formation, and characteristics of phases in terms of crystal structure needed to provide lubrication. Develop modeling and data analysis tools to determine the specific metal dopant that provides easy shearing (layer structure). We will do this using information about the effective cohesive enthalpy of the respective oxides and the structure. (3) Develop a demonstration and educational module about the importance and challenges of materials, design, and manufacturing in NASA’s mission to create a skilled workforce. After materials evaluation in a laboratory setting, testing of the coating will be conducted in NASA Glenn’s Extreme Environments Chamber. The anticipated outcome is that after reliable correlations between phase formation in given operating conditions and lubrication performance of the composite coating are established, a new multifunctional, self-adapting lubricating system can be developed for extreme MMA applications. Stakeholder industries have agreed to evaluate the self-lubricating composite technology for commercialization potential.

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.