Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) Multifunctional Structures for Space Re-entry Vehicles

Cellular Materials International, Inc. (CMI) proposes to develop and manufacture a prototype structural panel for testing and further optimization incorporating multifunctional features with structural stability at elevated temperature, thermal protection, and addressable magnetic elements. Local magnetic fields can be tailored to control the flow in the conductive boundary layer; control may be used to delay the transition from laminar to turbulent flow and prevent excessive premature heating of the vehicle surface. Similar concepts can later be used to design larger MHD devices for power generation or virtual control surfaces. CMI's proprietary designs and manufacturing know how will be incorporated in designing these MHD Tiles.