Integrated Composite Rocket Nozzle Extension

ORBITEC proposes to develop and demonstrate an Integrated Composite Rocket Nozzle Extension (ICRNE) for use in rocket thrust chambers. The ICRNE will utilize an innovative bonding approach to join a high-temperature composite nozzle extension to a regeneratively cooled metallic nozzle. The ICRNE technology will allow high-temperature composite materials to be directly integrated into a regeneratively-cooled nozzle section or thrust chamber made out of high-strength metallic alloys, thereby eliminating the heavy bolted flange joint that is currently used to attach high-temperature nozzle extensions. The resulting weight reduction will increase the thrust-to-weight ratio of the rocket engine. The ICRNE will also eliminate the need for multiple seals in the bolted flange joints, thus increasing reliability. The focus of the proposed Phase 1 effort will be to demonstrate the ICRNE technology by manufacturing and evaluating test specimens. A prototype ICRNE will also be designed and analyzed. In Phase 2, a prototype ICRNE unit will be fabricated, installed, and hot fire tested on an existing rocket engine. This proposal responds to Subtopic H2.02 In-Space Propulsion Systems, specifically "high temperature materials, coatings and/or ablatives or injectors, combustion chambers, nozzles, and nozzle extensions" for non-toxic, cryogenic, and nuclear thermal propulsion systems.

The ICRNE technology addresses the needs of Subtopic H2.02 In-Space Propulsion Systems, which requests "high temperature materials, coatings and/or ablatives or injectors, combustion chambers, nozzles, and nozzle extension." We expect the ICRNE technology to have direct and immediate application for RCS thrusters, OMS engines, upper stage engines, planetary ascent and descent engines, and new booster engines.

Beyond the needs of NASA, the DOD also requires advanced nozzle technology for new upper stage engines and boosters. If successful, the ICRNE technology can be used to join dissimilar materials for a very broad range of applications in many industries, including wing leading edges for high speed transport aircraft, airbreathing engines, turbines, industrial burners, and corrosion-resistant structures for naval vessels.

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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