Materials

Abstract

Materials basic research enhances the performance, cost, and reliability of structural materials to eliminate reliability issues related to high-temperature strength, toughness, fatigue, and environmental conditions. This research expands fundamental knowledge of material properties that leads to the development of novel materials for airframe, turbine engine, and spacecraft structures. The goals of this project are to develop improved materials for air and space vehicles that provide increased structural efficiency and reliability, increase the operating temperature of aerospace materials, and further increase thrust-to-weight ratio of engines. A primary research focus is on refractory alloys, intermetallics, polymer composites, metal and ceramic matrix composites, advanced ceramics, and new material processing methods. Basic research is also conducted in natural materials and systems to exploit unique properties and products for use in the development of advanced weapon technologies. Research is conducted to mimic the natural detection systems of organisms at the molecular level for use in developing novel man-made sensors. Research in natural materials focuses on using existing organisms or bioengineered organisms to manufacture new materials, or using the organisms themselves as materials. The primary areas investigated by this project are ceramics, non-metallic hybrid composites, metallic materials, and natural materials and systems.

Document Details

• Document Type: Project
• Publication Date: Oct 01, 2011
• Source ID: 612306_0601102F_1_3600_PB_2011

Tags

Readers

• Defense Technology Research and Development.
• Nanocomposite Materials Science
• Reinforced Composite Materials

Technology Areas

• Biotechnology
• Space