Radiation Shielding for Space Electronics in Severe Environments

NASA has identified a need for radiation shielding for electronics in extreme environments. NanoSonic is a small, advanced materials company with expertise in the development of advanced shielding and protective materials for use in cryogenic through thermonuclear conditions. In this program, we shall develop electronics shielding for the harsh conditions specific to the Europa Clipper baseline concept with a mission life of 10 years, where the radiation environment is estimated at 2.9 Mrad TID (total ionizing dose). The materials herein shall be used to outperform 0.1-in.-thick aluminum. In support of this research, NanoSonic has a Quantum Electronics and Sensors Division developing microelectronics that can be used in test scenarios during Phase I at the Brookhaven National Laboratory NASA Space Radiation Laboratory (BNL NSRL). The materials proposed in this program are the basis of our radiation shields that will be used in two CubeSat launches planned for the next calendar year.

The objective of the proposed NASA Phase I SBIR program is to design and develop ionizing radiation tolerant, cryogenic shielding for long-duration missions on Europa. A specific focus shall be placed on materials for electronics shielding. The Europa Clipper baseline concept has a mission life of 10 years with an estimated radiation environment of 2.9 Mrad TID (total ionizing dose) behind 0.1-in.-thick aluminum. Non-NASA applications include widespread systems that require durability and protection against long-term high dose ionizing radiation. These include medical, commercial space, and aerospace systems. For cryogenic materials, applications include many space systems, aerospace components, and those that serve the liquid and gaseous multi-billion dollar hydrogen clean energy market.

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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