Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer
Higher Strength, Lighter Weight Aluminum Spacecraft Structures, Phase I
Project Introduction
This SBIR Phase I program proposes to develop a bulk processing technology for producing ultra fine grain (UFG) aluminum alloy structures. The goal is to demonstrate a practical, production level manufacturing approach for producing bulk-sized aluminum alloy structures and eventually near-net shape components with nano-scale microstructures. Ultra fine grain aluminum alloys could be particularly advantageous for higher performance, lighter weight spacecraft structures, airframes, and space-frames and structural components needed for next generation commercial and military systems. The effect of different thermo-mechanical conditions to achieve the requisite microstructure-properties also needs to be understood, and will be developed in this project.
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Anticipated Benefits
Potential NASA commercial applications for higher strength, lighter weight aluminum alloy forgings, plates, and sheets with ultra fine grained microstructures include higher performance spacecraft and launch vehicles, civil fixed-wing and rotary aircraft systems requiring lightweight yet high strength and durable structures and components. Potential non-NASA commercial applications for higher strength, lighter weight aluminum alloy forgings, plates, and sheets with ultra fine grained microstructures include higher performance military spacecraft and launch vehicles, fixed-wing and rotary aircraft systems, combat vehicles, and land vehicles including automobiles and heavy duty trucks.
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Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transition45 Technologies, Inc. | Lead Organization |
Industry
Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB)
|
Orange, California |
Langley Research Center
(LaRC)
|
Supporting Organization | NASA Center | Hampton, Virginia |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
California
-
Virginia
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Organizational Responsibility
Responsible Mission Directorate:
- Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD)
Lead Organization:
- Transition45 Technologies, Inc.
Responsible Program:
- Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer
Project Management
Program Director:
Program Manager:
Principal Investigator:
Project Duration
Start: Jun 2014
End: Dec 2014
Technology Maturity (TRL)
| Start: | 2 |
| Current: | 4 |
| Estimated End: | 4 |
Applied Research
Development
Demo & Test
Technology Areas
Primary:
- TX12 Materials, Structures, Mechanical Systems, and Manufacturing
- TX12.1 Materials
- TX12.1.1 Lightweight Structural Materials
Target Destination
Earth
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