Project Title:

Composite Material Heat Pipes

09.13-6551
NAS8-38437
Composite Material Heat Pipes
Thermacore, Inc.
	780 Eden Road
	Lancaster, PA 17601
		Nelson J. Gernert
(717-569-6551)

Abstract:

	This project will demonstrate the feasibility of using carbon-composite materials,
recognized for their significant strength-to-weight ratio and stiffness, in the construction
of ambient-temperature heat pipes. It will link a lightweight composite material
with a high-performance, aluminum powder-metal-wick structure to yield a heat pipe
with an outstanding power-to-mass ratio. Higher heat transport and lower mass will
benefit future thermal control systems on NASA, military, and commercial spacecraft
as well as for use on future lunar and planetary bases. Technical feasibility will
be demonstrated through the design, fabrication, and test of a proof-of-principle
composite heat pipe.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications: Applications are primarily for thermal control
systems in spacecraft.