Flexible TPS Materials

Adaptable or morphing geometries enable shape change during flight to address conditions specific to each hypersonic flight regime, thereby extending hypersonic system range and capability. To enable geometric adaptation, flexible thermal protection system (TPS) materials are required that can withstand the extreme environmental demands of hypersonic flight. Having favorable flexibility and demonstrated performance at high temperature, MATECH envisions its HfCf/[PIP/50PBD]m composite technology as promising candidate for flexible thermal protection systems. During the phase I period of performance, MATECH will tailor its HfC conversion process to a domestically sustainable feedstock fiber, Lyocell, ensuring raw material supply chain security. The conversion process will be trialed on multiple reinforcement design iterations and high value property data will be generated to establish elasticity for each variant. Promising candidates will be screened through oxyacetylene torch testing using mission relevant conditions defined by MDA and corporate partner Lockheed Martin. Retention of material flexibility will be measured after testing, critical to ensuring geometric adaptability can be maintained during flight. Findings and preliminary cost models will be reported for further down-selection and material optimization efforts specific to Lockheed Martin identified end-use applications. A successful phase I program culminate in the establishment a new class of flexible TPS materials that enable hypersonic system geometric adaptability. Approved for Public Release | 20-MDA-10643 (3 Dec 20)