Lightweight Linerless Cryogenic Composite Tanks for Near-Space Platforms

In this Phase II SBIR program, CTD will design lightweight, composite satellite bus structures with integrated tanks and pressure vessels. Two key areas of technology will be developed and exploited to bring these lightweight bus structures to fruition. One is the development of an integrated tank system, which will be composed of both conventional and conformal tank concepts. The other is the design of a structure that is of a ‘unibody’ configuration, in which for this bus assembly, the integrated tanks will function also as the primary structure. Furthermore, these structures will be manufactured in a manner that minimize the need for metallic fitting and mechanical joints. The Phase II effort will combine design and analysis of conformable structures, novel material development and innovative manufacturing techniques to develop and build a prototype integrated tank structure for a specific satellite mission.