Center Innovation Fund: MSFC CIF
The Fabrication of Ultra-Light Full-Shell Replicated x-Ray Optics by 3D-Printing, Year 1
Project Description
The proposal seeks to demonstrate printing of material directly onto a precisely figured mandrel in order to eliminate secondary forming and polishing steps after the printing process. The first process is to electroform a very thin (i.e., 50 micron) layer of Ni onto a mandrel. Afterward the ceramic is printed onto the electroformed nickel, heat treated at low temperature, and then released. The second approach is to use a thin film release layer such as Titanium Nitride (TiN) which is deposited on the mandrel prior to printing of the ceramic. After printing the ceramic is heat treated at low temperature and then released.
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Anticipated Benefits
The goals of this proposal are relevant to NASA as an approach for the development of large-area, high-resolution optics for future missions. The ultimate goal is to provide the X-ray astrophysics community with improved instrumentation for the discovery of how the Universe works from the very moment of its creation through the evolution of galaxies, stars and planets, how it will continue to evolve, and what its ultimate fate may be.
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Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
Marshall Space Flight Center
(MSFC)
|
Lead Organization | NASA Center | Huntsville, Alabama |
| Hot End Works | Supporting Organization | Industry |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
Alabama
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