National Hypersonic Research Facility for High-Temperature Materials Development and Characterization
Abstract
For more than 40 years, arc-jet testing has served as a primary basis for characterizing Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) in support of material development and response model validation. Arcjet facilities provide the only ground-based means of simulating hypersonic heating rates (entry, reentry, hypersonic cruise) in a reacting flow environment under flight-relevant durations. Arc-jettesting provides data for detail material response models that can reduce uncertainty and the magnitude of thickness margins. Arc-jets are also essential to investigate echanical failure modes including erosion, spallation, and losses related to shear effects.The objective of this proposal is to develop a national research facility for high-temperature materials development and characterization in support of the Office of Naval Research program on ultra-high temperature materials for hypersonic technologies.Concurrent with material development, numerous ac-jet tests are needed to anchor response models used to assess material behavior. The proposed research infrastructure will be capable of supporting ONR researchers with unprecedented flexibility at reduced costs, allowing a fundamental integration between new materials concepts and multiple verifications, under relevantconditions, throughout the course of the material development.The proposed facility development is centered on the upgrade and extension of the performance capabilities of the existing, and operational, 1.6 MW arc-heated wind tunnel of the University of Texas at Arlington, and leverages on the experience of the PI and his team. Based on the PI~s best knowledge, this facility is the only university-operated arc-heated wind tunnel in the country capable of high-impact pressures and high-shear in the 2MW class.With the proposed upgrades, the new arc-jet will constitute a national asset and a unique platform in support of the Office of Naval Research program on ultra-high temperature materials for hypersonic technologies. Participating students will be able to gain unique scientific and technicalexpertise in disciplines relevant to the DOD.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 07, 2017
- Source ID
- N000141512942
Entities
People
- Luca Maddalena
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Texas at Arlington