Large 3D CMC RF Windows for Extreme Hypersonic Environments

This project will expand on prior investigation of ATFI’s Cerablak™ 3D Ox-Ox CMC with the objective of demonstrating manufacturability of a specific shape for integration into the airframe of the missile or vehicle. Cerablak™ 3D Ox-Ox CMCs offer unprecedented benefits, particularly relevant to discrete windows for their ability to withstand extreme thermal gradients and ability to form precise shapes via an innovative 3D printed tooling approach previously demonstrated under a Phase I equivalent effort. Based on excellent net shape fabrication and machineability demonstrated in previous works, ATFI is confident that production of consistent quality, high performance RF windows can be achieved by use of this innovative concept under the proposed effort. The project is being conducted with excellent collaborators for window design, integration, and testing as well as baseline testing of mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties. It is anticipated that the MRL maturation will be significant with respect to the ability to machine the CMC to precise dimensional tolerances, which is critical both for window performance and for integration.