Electric-hydrodynamic Control of Two-Phase Heat Transfer in Microgravity Testing

The main outcome of the proposed effort is the validation of a novel electro-hydrodynamic (EHD) technology to intensify and control two-phase heat transfer in microgravity. Flight tests will advance the EHD technology maturity from Proof of Concept (TRL 3-4) to Demonstration in Microgravity (TRL 6-7). The work is related to the major technical challenges prioritized by NASA Space Technology Roadmap, Technology Area 14 Thermal Management Systems and NASA Space Technology Grand Challenges.
This effort is related to T0043.
Publication (November 2018): Single-bubble water boiling on small heater under Earth’s and low gravity.

The technology of novel heat transfer systems that employ boiling in microgravity will provide new transformational capabilities for proven two-phase thermal systems through incremental modifications to handle high heat load when local boiling takes place. These systems will benefit the commercial space industry, future NASA missions, and other government agences such as the military.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — 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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