The proposed work promises to improve performance and reduce cost of hot structures for future hypersonic vehicles. Specifically, the proposed technology can provide a structural, re-usable thermal protection system. A partial list of existing and future NASA programs that could also benefit from this enhanced capability include robotic Moon or Mars missions; human Lunar accent/decent; and the nozzle extension liquid engines.
Potential non-NASA applications that could benefit from the proposed technology include nozzle extensions of upper stage engines for nanosatellite launch or ISS resupply; nosetips, leading edges and control surfaces for DoD hypersonic vehicles; and exit cones and control vanes for tactical missiles.
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