Advanced Materials/Methods for Improved Kinematic Reach/Containment

MATECH proposes to develop a cutting edge lightweight thermal insulator composite material for use in next generation solid rocket motoer (SRM) and compact divert and attitude control systems (DACS) in order to increase kinematic reach and containment in next generation Missile Defense systems.MATECH will optimize both components of its proposed ULK materials system based on characterization bogies identified by partners.Physical and thermal property measurements of the material system will include torch/thermal shock testing to evaluate erosion resistance, oxidation resistance, and thermal transfer.Following a successful Phase I effort, corporate partners will identify components that would benefit from the capable material system. In a notional Phase II, identified hot fire motor components will be constructed and evaluated using the new insulator material.If deemed necessary, further improvements to the matrix chemistry and manufacturing processes will be implemented for an optimized Gen II materials system.Manufacturing technology will be scaled up and streamlined to increase batch size while reducing processing variability.Pending results, a Phase II option will include evaluation of UHT capabilities of the material system with refractory coatings and/or drop-in throats under relevant conditions.(Approved for Public Release 15-MDA-8482 (17 November 15))