Nanomaterials: Opportunities and Challenges for Aerospace
Abstract
Nanomaterials are regarded world-wide as key materials of the 21st Century. Also, in aerospace a high potential for nanomaterials applications is postulated and technological breakthroughs are expected in this area. In this context, improvements based on these materials are to be considered both in a short to medium-term time scale as well as on a long-term basis in view of different prospective studies. Some applications are feasible in a short to medium-term time horizon like: (a) lightweight and mechanically outstanding structures based on nanocomposites, especially for harsh environments and high temperatures; (b) improved and smaller systems and controls based on microsensors, on smart nanomaterials, and/or on embedded actuators for on-line monitoring, self-calibration, self-regulation, or self-healing applications; (c) Thermal and mechanical protection layers with outstanding tribological characteristics for engine or landing gear parts made of nanostructured materials; (d) Filtration, cleaning and absorption of non-wanted specimen obtained from aerogels. The long-term applications are based on strategic actuations like imitating nature or on molecular nanotechnologies, where material synthesis "a la carte" can be expected. Anyhow, all these opportunities will become real products if all the challenges that these new technologies imply can be overcome: (a) Technical challenges (b) Regulations and standards (c) Cost and quantities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA469619
Entities
People
- Isabel Obieta
- J. Marcos