Preceramic Polymers to HfCN Ceramic Fibers and Matrices

This Phase II MDA SBIR Program seeks to demonstrate HfCNf/HfCNm Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMC) for THAAD Axial Propulsion and Divert and Attitude Control Systems (DACS) applications. In our Phase I SBIR Program, we developed and optimized preceramic polymers to hafnium carbide/nitride (HfCN) for CMC matrices and structural ceramic fibers. The world's first preceramic polymer-derived HfC-based structural ceramic fibers were demonstrated. Additionally, preceramic polymers for polymer-infiltration-pyrolysis have also been developed. With both of these advances, it is now possible to produce HfCNf/HfCNm Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMC), as well as woven carbon fiber/HfCN matrix composites. Such an advance in CMC technology should have a significant impact on elevating the operational temperature and duration of rocket thrusters and nozzle throats with minimal erosion for such demanding applications as THAAD. At the completion of the Phase II program, prototype HfCf/HfCm and Cf/HfCm ceramic matrix composite (CMC) thrusters will have been fabricated and tested at operational temperatures of 4000oF (~2200oC) and above. The physical, thermal, and mechanical properties, performance, and erosion behavior will have been measured and analyzed. The necessary steps to scale-up and production will be ready for implementation in the Phase III program.