CNT Applique for SHM of Space Structures

Space structures are unique in that once they are deployed, there is little to no opportunity for manual inspection to assess their integrity. Even on the space station, where there is a continuous human presence, traditional non-destructive evaluation (NDE) is impractical due to complexity of necessitating a space-walk, not to mention the training required to obtain meaningful results. These structures are subject to damage caused by the extreme launch environment, micrometeorite and orbital debris (MMOD) impact, thermal cycling and even atomic-level corrosion. Nevertheless, it is desirable for space structures to be designed with as small safety margins as possible due to the significant cost of placing objects into space. Therefore, NASA seeks reliable structural health monitoring (SHM) techniques to be able to remotely inspect space structures. Such a system could be used as an early warning system for manned space missions, to indicate when a critical repair may need to be conducted, or an emergency abort event is necessitated. MDC proposes the use of a conformal CNT applique for providing SHM capabilities to space structures while only adding 10 GSM mass and 100 micron thickness. Four separate detection methods will be demonstrated using the multi-physics properties of this unique material.

This method will have the greatest benefit for composite manned space vehicle applications, however will also have applicability to metallic and unmanned structures. The method is particularly attractive for space applications due to its low profile and mass implication. Immediate NASA applications include retrofit into the ISS for MMOD monitoring, or for future designs of space habitats.

CNT applique based SHM would also be attractive for the same reason to any aerospace application, both defense or commercial, such as fixed-wing aircraft, rotorcraft and UAV. There could also be potential for this technology in monitoring other remote platforms such as oil and natural gas drilling rigs and wind turbines. At a sufficiently low cost, infrastructure monitoring could also benefit.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — 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.

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.