SBIR/STTR
Lightweight Inflatable Cryogenic Tank, Phase I
Project Introduction
This proposal describes the development of an inflatable and lightweight polymer-fabric structured pressure vessel designed for the containment of cryogenic fluids. Technology Applications, Inc. (TAI) in collaboration with the Thin Red Line Aerospace (TRLA) proposes to develop a cryogen tank design solution with fully determinate load paths that addresses the need for lightweight pressure containment at extremely low temperatures without the reliability issues that exist in composite tank structures. Ultra High Performance Vessel (UHPV) technology that has already been developed for many other applications will be extended for use into the cryogenic temperature operating range. The Phase I feasibility study encompasses the design and critical support elements for creating a robust lightweight cryogenic tank structure that meets NASA mission specifications. The Phase II program will involve fabricating and demonstrating the performance of a prototype cryogen tank based upon the inflatable UVHP architecture.
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Anticipated Benefits
Potential NASA Commercial Applications: By developing this technology and making it more cost effective, other government and non-government entities will benefit from a lighter-weight, deployable, and flexible cryogen tank to meet cooling and storage needs in industries such as medical, biotech, high-temperature superconductors, and telecommunications. The potential for application in the transport and storage of liquefied natural gas (LNG) would provide significant potential to a large and growing market.
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Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
Langley Research Center
(LaRC)
|
Lead Organization | NASA Center | Hampton, Virginia |
| Technology Applications, Inc. | Supporting Organization | Industry | Boulder, Colorado |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
Colorado
-
Virginia
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Organizational Responsibility
Responsible Mission Directorate:
- Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD)
Lead Center / Facility:
- Langley Research Center (LaRC)
Responsible Program:
- SBIR/STTR
Project Management
Program Director:
Program Manager:
Principal Investigator:
Project Duration
Start: Feb 2011
End: Sep 2011
Technology Maturity (TRL)
| Start: | 2 |
| Current: | 3 |
| Estimated End: | 3 |
Applied Research
Development
Demo & Test
Technology Areas
Primary:
- TX14 Thermal Management Systems
- TX14.1 Cryogenic Systems
- TX14.1.1 In-space Propellant Storage & Utilization
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