Extraction of Rocket Propellant Physical Properties Via Computed Tomography

The objective of this SBIR project is to develop enhanced capabilities to evaluate solid rocket motors (SRMs) using x-ray computed tomography (CT) inspection. In Phase I, approaches were defined for developing technology to improve CT inspectioncapabilities. In Phase II, the technology will be developed and incorporated in practical tools to be delivered to OO-ALC at Hill AFB, where Air Force missile SRMs are inspected. Improvements will be made in the acquisition, analysis and visualization ofCT data. A suite of statistical analysis tools will provide capabilities to quantitatively characterize, analyze, and compare CT data from one or more SRMs. The volume visualization toolkit will create realistic three-dimensional images of features, suchas flaws and aging effects. Tele-CT capabilities for network collaboration will enable Hill AFB engineers to easily share CT data and consult with other experts on the interpretation and evaluation of CT inspection results. Successful completion of thisPhase II project will improve Air Force capabilities to detect features in an SRM with CT inspection and to evaluate the effect of these features on SRM integrity.