This program proposes the technological advancement in further improving upon radiation shielding efficiency in effective shielding with lower mass and volume. The academic merit contribution is an experimental approach to understanding the microscale effect gradient-Z type shielding can offer over macroscale lay-up design. Powdermet and MR&D anticipate publishing these results. In addition, the design of gradient-Z micropowder additive enables simple and cost/time efficient routs for preparing shielding to harden electronics to radiation exposure. NASA will benefit from an expanded understanding on the capability of gradient-Z shielding designs and with phase II & III optimization development, have at its "use" an easily applicable effective shielding material for protecting electronics, cargo, and crew during orbit and deep space travels.
Powdermet envisions this radiation shielding powder additive having additional application with non-NASA space application that includes the commercial market satellites in LEO and MEO. Industries outside space considerations that could use Powdermet's shielding additive include: 1. Health Industry - radiology electronic components 2. Department of Defense - nuclear blast radiation shielding 3. Particle Accelerators - electronic components and tight joints 4. Nuclear Facilities - electronics and tight joints
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