Large Silicon Carbide Grids for X-Ray Microcalorimeter Blocking Filters

Our SiC grids address a NASA Tier 1 technology gap, Microcalorimeter Optical Blocking Filters. Phase II SiC grids will reduce blocking filter contamination rate by 100X and increase filter strength by 2X. The performance advantages we identify for SiC microcalorimeter grids have analogs for AXIS, and for X-ray instrumentation. Our fabrication technology will be used to make precision parts and micro-electrical mechanical systems (MEMS). We can create silicon carbide components with exceptional thermal properties, strength, and dimensional tolerance. The requested Phase II funding primarily advances the TRL of SiC grids by increasing their vibration strength 4-20X. This strength increase enables SiC grid implementation into X-ray telescopes, most notably AXIS and X-IFU. It will provide SiC grid durability test data to the AXIS team. The Phase II prototypes will allow us to bridge the gap from laboratory samples to prototypes for planned missions. The test data obtained in Phase II will reduce the OBF technical risks for other upcoming X-ray telescope missions. The Phase II funding assists our cost reduction goals by allowing us to make purchases of newly available higher performance components. To achieve the best results, we purchase factory lots of components and build these into our custom process tools. Our Phase II plan calls for purchasing three such factory lots, and will demonstrate a 6X cost reduction. Phase II will make fundamental advances in SiC component strength and materials damping. For example we will deposit a metal multilayer damping coating, a structure which never before been tested. This multilayer is expected to provide more damping than any previous deposited metal coating. Phase II will increase ceramic strength to a level which has never previously been demonstrated for large components.