The design of fibrous insulation to minimize radiative heat transfer for TPS

This project proposes to develop and validate a physics-based capability to predict radiative heat transfer in fibrous insulations for thermal protection systems. Current design approaches utilize semi-empirical relationships based on measured data to define radiative heat transfer performance. The proposed effort will solve the radiation transport equation and predict thermal performance based on fiber morphology and optical properties. The project will characterize and study the performance of Q-fiber felt which is an aerospace insulation made from silica fibers.

Commercial fibrous materials are not optimal designs for thermal protection systems because they are the only option available. The proposed capability to predict radiative heat transfer will enable optimal designs, increased reliability, and efficient manufacturing for targeted EDL requirements.

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.