Materials Genome Initiative (MGI)

Develop computational tools to assist in the manufacture, design and certification of new materials and processes. These tools will reduce the time and costs to infuse new materials while also improving reliability. This program is currently focusing on additive manufacturing as this technology has high payoff for NASA and requires computational design tools.

Develop integrated computational/experimental/processing methodologies for accerlating discovery and insertion of mateirals to satisfy NASA's unique mission demands. The challenges: Validated design tools that incorporate materials properties, processes and design requirements Materials process control to rapidly mature emerging manufacturing methods to industry ready Approach: Physics-based modeling to guide material design e.g. matrix composition, crosslinking between CNTs, grain size and texture Multiscale modeling influence of materials design on mechanical properties and durability Process modeling to determine processing parameters required to produce as-designed material nano-/micro-structures and enable advanced manufacturing methods utilization Utilize material data management to support robust material design methodology