Refractory Metal Alloys and Composites for Space Power Systems

Abstract

Space power requirements for future NASA and other United States missions will range from a few kilowatts to megawatts of electricity. Maximum efficiency is a key goal of any power system in order to minimize weight and size so that the space shuttle may be used a minimum number of times to put the power supply into orbit. Nuclear power has been identified as the primary power source to meet these high levels of electrical demand. One method to achieve maximum efficiency is to operate the power supply, energy conversion system, and related components at relatively high temperatures. NASA Lewis Research Center has undertaken a research program on advanced technology of refractory metal alloys and composites that will provide base line information for space power systems in the 1900's and the 21st century. Basic research on the tensile and creep properties of fibers, matrices, and composites will be discussed.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 09, 1988
Accession Number
ADA425543

Entities

People

  • Donald W. Petrasek
  • Joseph R. Stephens
  • Robert H. Titran

Organizations

  • National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Base Metal
  • Composite Materials
  • Creep Strength
  • Geometry
  • Heat Energy
  • Heat Treatment
  • Jet Propulsion
  • Materials
  • Materials Laboratories
  • Materials Processing
  • Materials Science
  • Metal Matrix Composites
  • Refractory Metal Alloys
  • Refractory Metals
  • Space Stations
  • Space Systems
  • Spacecraft

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Defense Technology Research and Development.
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Reinforced Composite Materials

Technology Areas

  • Space