Thermophysical Property Characterization of Decomposing Aerospace Materials

Under Phase-I of MDA SBIR 16.3-021, i3 demonstrated a new time-efficient technique, the i3 Transient Decomposition Method (TDM), for generating statistically-based material response models that predict the decomposition process that thermal protection system materials undergo when exposed to severe aerothermal heating environments. The i3 TDM is an enabling technology for MDA and other agencies that will drastically increase reliability of vehicle design by improving flight realism while reducing required cost and schedule. i3 TDM integrates the use of novel T&E methodologies and facilities coupled to new modeling and simulation approaches. The resulting combination of novel testing and M&S enables development of high fidelity thermochemical decomposition models to support transient aerothermal analysis and system design. This process emphasizes the importance of measuring, recording, and predicting transient material behavior over the entire range of flight relevant environments. The feasibility demonstrated in Phase I will expand to a prototype technology capable of modelling a range of materials experiencing varying environmental conditions. Phase II will include ground testing of MDA specific materials and conditions, analytical modelling and validation testing in an arc-heater facility, culminating in the successful demonstration of a cost and time efficient, accurate process for developing thermal/density response models of decomposing.Approved for Public Release | 18-MDA-9522 (23 Feb 18)