Niobium-Based Intermetallics for Affordable In-Space Propulsion Applications

This SBIR Phase I effort proposes an innovative class of refractory metal intermetallic composites as alternatives to high temperature metallic materials presently used and/or considered for in-space propulsion components. In addition to a superior high temperature performance potential, these niobium-based intermetallics could offer significant cost savings over conventional refractory alloys, provided they can be affordably manufactured into near-net shapes. An advanced reactive metal casting technology is applied to produce the most sophisticated Nb-based intermetallic composite component shape ever attempted. Innovative shape processing techniques are needed for Nb-based intermetallics, since they are critical to manufacturing cost-effectiveness.