Enhanced Composite Cryotank

The objective of this effort is to develop the capability to produce low-cost high-performance, lightweight composite cryogenic propellant tanks for use on expendable and reusable space access vehicles and hypersonic aircraft. GTL took a major step towards this capability in a previous effort that demonstrated that it was possible to fabricate ultra-thin BHL composite propellant tanks (small-scale) that remain leak tight when subjected to cryo-thermal pressure cycles with liquid nitrogen. To fully realize the potential of the BHL technology, additional innovation is required to address key issues. The proposed effort will seek to develop innovative tooling and automation processes that are suitable for ultra-thin composite pressure vessel. This would increase manufacturing robustness, reduce touch labor, increase production speed and reduce production cost. The effort will also apply an innovative testing approach to obtain quantitative data that demonstrates the microstrain and cycle life capabilities of the BHL technology. These data will aid in optimizing the BHL configuration to meet or exceed DARPAs goals. Using these results, GTL will begin the development of a 6 ft diameter BHL cryotank that incorporates all of the technology enhancements and meets or exceeds the goals for the effort.