Project Title:

Lightweight, Oxidation Resistant, High-Temperature Composite Thrusters

92-1-11.09-5911                                                   NAS09-18872
Lightweight, Oxidation Resistant, High-Temperature
     Composite Thrusters
Fiber Materials, Inc.
5 Morin Street
Biddeford, ME  04005-4497
Clifford F. Baker                                    (207-282-5911)

Abstract:

     An advanced thruster is needed that can meet the high-
temperature, weight-sensitive applications of modern satellite
propulsion systems. A composite structure, manufactured using low-
density materials such as carbon fibers encased in a ceramic
matrix, can provide thrusters that meet these requirements. The
choice of ceramic matrix will define the operating temperature of
the composite and the type of propellent which can be burned.
Using very-high-temperature ceramic materials will result in
thrusters able to withstand flame temperatures of 2700øC, thereby
precluding the need for active cooling of the nozzle and
eliminating a complex manufacturing step. Ceramic materials will
also reduce manufacturing costs and improve system reliability by
eliminating a possible failure point.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications:  The resulting composite
thrusters will benefit boost motors and attitude control thrusters
on commercial communications satellites. These materials may also
find applications as nozzle materials for other high temperature
environments such as furnace nozzles and plasma nozzles.

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