Innovative High Temperature Acoustic Liner Development and Modeling, Phase I

The massive acoustic loads produced by launch vehicles can detrimentally affect the proper functioning of vehicle components, payloads, and launch support structures. The high-velocity and high temperature rocket engine exhaust stream mixes with ambient atmosphere to generate intense acoustic loads, which account for the majority of structural vibration during launch. Ultramet has developed a unique, high temperature material that has demonstrated passive broadband sound attenuation over a range of frequencies and can withstand temperatures in excess of 1650 C (3000 F). In this project, Ultramet proposes to team with the Graduate Program in Acoustics at Pennsylvania State University (PSU) to develop and test a scale model to validate the impedance of this novel high temperature acoustic liner. An innovative, porous acoustic material will be developed that has demonstrated thermal, corrosion, acoustic, and mechanical load resistance at high temperatures, and porosity, pore size, pore shape, and material of construction will be varied to optimize mechanical and acoustic performance over a wide range of frequencies, amplitudes, and gas flow velocities and temperatures. Ultramet and PSU will also develop a basic numerical model to aid in the design of an economical and efficient liner exhaust duct system.

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.