Structural & Reinforcement Applications |
Lightweight Structural Components for Laser Propulsion
Technology Description
Lightweight thrusters with high strength and stiffness at high temperatures are required for laser propulsion to be effective. With currently available megawatt-class lasers, ultralightweight thruster design is required to demonstrate a significant thrust-to-weight ratio. ESLI investigated structural materials concepts in which strong refractory fibers were assembled in a way that eliminates the need for supporting matrix material.
| Potential Benefits The resulting structural materials are dramatically lighter than conventional fiber-reinforced composite materials and offer new opportunities for lightweight structural design. |
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Development Status
ESLI performed a Phase 1 SBIR contract with the U.S. Air Force to develop lightweight structures and materials for laser propulsion applications.
U.S. Air Force Phase 1 SBIR (F04611-97-C-0055)