Inexpensive High-Performance Divert Thrusters

Missile defense systems will never be practical unless they are affordable. In some cases, backing off on the technology can result in an equivalent unit at considerably lower cost. Such a case exists with regard to the divert thrusters used in liquid propellant propulsion systems. These thrusters are currently made of a carbon fiber-reinforced silicon carbide (Cf/SiC) ceramic matrix composite (CMC), a cutting-edge material but with a cutting-edge price. In this Phase I project, Ultramet will demonstrate the feasibility of fabricating affordable divert thrust chambers that provide equally high performance, through the innovative application of materials and processing science. The transport of hot and/or corrosive fluids is problematic and expensive. This is especially true in the nuclear industry, for both commercial and military applications. The protection of carbon composites from oxidizing environments has significant application not only in aerospace, but in commercial areas as well. One such application is the protection of C/C pistons for diesel engines. Many hot gas applications also exist in military aircraft and gun systems.