← Back to NASA Technology Projects
Active TRL 1 (started at 1, targeting 3)
This project intends to explore the use of additively manufactured LAD meshes (lattices and porous metallics) in place of conventional wire meshes. This will capitalize on the high tunability and advancements in AM to optimize the performance and manufacturability of gallery channel LADs. Additionally, AM enables engineers to apply creative design solutions to optimize system performance. One of the planned optimizations is to move the tank coolant channels from the exterior of the tank to the interior and combine them with the gallery channels to minimize the amount of evaporation in the fluid channels.
Switching from conventional wire meshes to additive meshes and porous metallics will ease the manufacturing process and quality assurance activities. As previously mentioned, AM enables engineers greater creativity to optimize the channels and tailor them to the specific needs of the application.
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 1) — 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.