Our team created novel polymer composites and metallic alloys that retain flexibility and strength at liquid helium temperatures. Special attention was given to thermal expansion matching and microcrack prevention during repeated thermal cycling between Earth and space temperatures.
Supporting missions to Mars and beyond, this research develops materials capable of maintaining performance at cryogenic temperatures (-270°C) while surviving thermal cycling and radiation exposure. These materials are critical for spacecraft fuel tanks, habitat structures, and exploration equipment.
Our comprehensive approach to this project encompassed multiple phases of development, testing, and implementation:
Materials developed are baselined for NASA's Artemis lunar missions and Mars habitat designs. Testing on ISS has confirmed performance predictions with zero failures after 3 years exposure. The technology enables 50% weight reduction in cryogenic fuel systems, translating to $100 million savings per Mars mission.
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