Crystallization studies of zblan glass in an electrostatic levitator

Completed TRL 2 (started at 1, targeting 2)

Description

Plan is to pull fibers using the electrostatic lab. Also, plan to eperiment with Erbium doped ZBLAN for higher power fiber lasters.

Benefits

ZBLAN optical fiber could be suitable for IR, but crystallizes during fabrication. Microgravity may mitigate (tests planned commercially on ISS).

Details

Technology area	Sensors and Instruments > In Situ Instruments and Sensors > Electromagnetic Wave–Based Sensors
Program	Center Innovation Fund: MSFC CIF (MSFC CIF)
Lead organization	Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, AL
Start date	2018-10-01
End date	2019-09-30

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

Dennis S Tucker

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 2) — 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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