Novel Radiation Shielding Composite Structural Materials for Deep Space Human Protection

Advances in radiation shielding systems technologies are needed to protect humans and electronic components from all threats of space radiation. This is especially important as NASA continues to develop plans for long duration missions, where exposure to harmful radiation is greater than ever before. Brimrose Technology Corporation, in collaboration with Penn State University, proposes to develop a novel integrated radiation shielding material based on aluminum and UHMWPE and Field Assisted Sintering Technology (FAST) will be used to fabricate the prototypes of these materials. Beside radiation shielding capabilities, such materials would also have desirable thermal and mechanical properties suitable for forming protective structures that are strong, durable, thermally manageable, and hermetic.