Nanotechnology in Aerospace

MCG 5138 [A]

Nanomaterials: Synthesis, Properties and Applications

Submitted to Dr. Mohammed Yandouzi

Prepared By: Team #4

Akshay Hegde (300121076)

Paavan Dave (300102179)

Shivangkumar Mistry (300116967)

Vaibhav Desai (300106913)

Hitarth Mehta (300126563)

Fall 2020
Contents
1. Introduction to Nanotechnology ........................................................................................................ 3
1.2 Nanotechnology in Aerospace Industry ........................................................................................ 5
1.2.1 Polymer Nanocomposite........................................................................................................ 6
1.2.2 Nanostructured Metals .......................................................................................................... 7
1.2.3 Anti-corrosion Coatings ......................................................................................................... 7
2. Carbon nanotubes............................................................................................................................... 9
2.1 Manufacturing of Carbon nanotubes......................................................................................... 10
2.1.1 Arc Discharge method .......................................................................................................... 10
2.1.2. Laser ablation method ........................................................................................................ 11
2.1.3. Catalyzed chemical vapor deposition ................................................................................. 12
3. Carbon nanotubes in Aerospace ....................................................................................................... 14
3.1. Synthesis of Carbon nanotube/Polymer Composite Material ................................................... 16
3.1.1 Solution Processing .............................................................................................................. 16
3.1.2 Melt Processing .................................................................................................................... 16
3.1.3. In-situ Polymerization ......................................................................................................... 17
4. space applications of Carbon nanotube composites/nanoparticles ................................................ 18
4.1. Electromagnetic shielding in aerospace .................................................................................... 19
4.2. Static Discharge in Aerospace ................................................................................................... 20
4.3 Coatings....................................................................................................................................... 20
4.4. Thermal Protection .................................................................................................................... 21
4.5. Thermal , Radiation and Impact Protective Shields(TRIPS) ....................................................... 21
4.6 Composite Laminates.................................................................................................................. 22
5. CONCLUSION ..................................................................................................................................... 24
References ............................................................................................................................................ 25

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 List of figures

Figure 1 Market trend over the last 5 year and forecast for upcoming years in the US[4]. .................. 5
Figure 2 Global nanoparticles market share in 2019[4]. ........................................................................ 5
Figure 3 illustration of rolling up of graphene to carbon nanotube ..................................................... 9
Figure 4 Arc-discharge method for synthesis for carbon nanotube ..................................................... 11
Figure 5. (a) tip growth of CNTs. (b) root growth of CNTs .................................................................... 13
Figure 6 schematic view of CNT and graphene addition to enhance properties with their application
.............................................................................................................................................................. 15
Figure 7 Solution Processing method for Composite Fabrication ........................................................ 16
Figure 8 In-situ polymerization process ............................................................................................... 17
Figure 9 schematic of TRIPS .................................................................................................................. 22
Figure 10Aligned CNT in polymer matrix .............................................................................................. 23

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1. Introduction to Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology is the study and application of extremely small things and can be used across

all the other science fields, such as chemistry, biology, physics, materials science, and

engineering. Nanoscience and nanotechnology involve the ability to see and to control

individual atoms and molecules. Everything on Earth is made up of atoms—the food we eat,

the clothes we wear, the buildings and houses we live in, and our own bodies. In other words

the branch of technology that deals with dimensions and tolerances of less than 100

nanometre, especially the manipulation of individual atoms and molecules. The thoughts and

ideas driving nanoscience and nanotechnology began with a discussion named "There's Plenty

of Room at the Bottom" by physicist Richard Feynman at an American Physical Society

meeting at the California Institute of Technology (December 29, 1959) well before the term

nanotechnology was utilized Longer than 10 years after the fact, in his investigations of ultra-

precision machining, Professor Norio Taniguchi instituted the term nanotechnology. It wasn't

until 1981, with the advancement of the examining burrowing magnifying instrument that

could see singular molecules that cutting edge nanotechnology started.

According to European commission, nanomaterial is defined as “A natural, incidental or

manufactured material containing particles, in an unbound state or as an aggregate or as an

agglomerate and where, for 50 % or more of the particles in the number size distribution, one

or more external dimensions is in the size range 1 nm - 100 nm[1]. What differs nanomaterial

from their bulk counterpart is their distinctive chemical and physical properties which can be

attributed to the quantum effects and surface interactions at nanoscale. The quantum effect

describes the physics of the electron in solid as particle size decreases. It is predominantly

seen at nanoscale. Materials can be produced that are nanoscale in one dimension (for
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example, very thin surface coatings), in two dimensions (for example, nanowires and

nanotubes) or in all three dimensions (for example, nanoparticles and quantum dots) [2]. In

bulk material, the properties are merely the average of all the quantum forces exerted by a

single atom, but as the materials are examined at nanoscale, their properties change as the

averaging makes no difference. Another factor is surface area, nanomaterial has larger area

compared to their bulk counterparts and this make them more reactive and changes their

optical and chemical properties. For instance, Nanoscale gold particles are not the yellow

colour with which we are familiar with, instead it can appear red or purple. At the nanoscale,

the motion of the gold’s electrons is confined, as the movement is restricted, gold

nanoparticles react differently with light compared to larger-scale gold particles. Their size

and optical properties can be put to practical use: nanoscale gold particles selectively

accumulate in tumours, where they can enable both precise imaging and targeted laser

destruction of the tumour by means that avoid harming healthy cells [3].

1.1 Global market and Research Trends in Nanotechnology

By the year of 2019, global market value for nanomaterial was valued at 8.5 billion and is

forecasted to grow at compound annual growth rate of 13.1% in 2020-2027. This forecast

drive can be only possible with the aerospace industry's need for high strength and durable

aircraft parts[4]; another contributor is the healthcare industry with advanced emerging

medical diagnosis and imaging technologies. The abundance of raw material such as metal

alloys, polymer and metals along with the high-end technology for their synthesis is also

expected to drive the nanomaterial industry.

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Figure 1 Market trend over the last 5 year and forecast for upcoming years in the US[4].

Figure 2 Global nanoparticles market share in 2019[4].

1.2 Nanotechnology in Aerospace Industry

Due to tremendous growth in synthesis of material which has desirable properties such as

light weight, high tensile strength , highly tailorable thermal and optical properties, there is a

huge potential market for nanomaterials in aerospace industry; in fact, they are being highly

used in electromagnetic shielding and in sensor technology. The main advantage

nanoparticles have over other conventional material is that they are multifunctional.
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irrespective of such superiority, the market of aerospace is still small owing to the immaturity

of the materials and qualification cost and certification standards required by the industry

and customers[5]. Most of the engineered nanomaterials used in the aerospace industry use

carbon nanostructures(carbon nanotubes(CNT) and graphene) and inorganic nanomaterials(

silica and metallic oxides)[5].

engineered nanomaterials are above par compared to conventional materials in both

structural and nonstructural applications for aeronautical and space systems. their

mechanical properties are much more pronounced with increased flexibility and thermal

efficiency. efficient power production, transmission and storage can be facilitated by

nanotechnology. enhanced radiation protection for people and power; and reliable life

support system for long duration flights.

This report will mainly focus on the structural application of nanomaterials in the aerospace

system .Mainly there are three types of nanomaterials that are employed in the aerospace

manufacturing industry: Polymer nanocomposites, nanostructured metals, and anti-

corrosion coatings.

1.2.1 Polymer Nanocomposite

Polymer nanocomposites (PNC) consist of a polymer or copolymer having nanoparticles or

nanofillers dispersed in the polymer matrix. These may be of different shape (e.g., platelets,

fibers, spheroids), but at least one dimension must be in the range of 1–50 nm[6].

Nanocomposites usually have high weight to strength ratios and enhanced resilience to

vibration and fire and hence they are highly ideal for use in the aerospace industry, A wide

range of nanomaterials have been used as filler materials to enhance the non-structural and

structural properties of nanomaterials. Most commonly used are carbon nanotubes,

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nanofibers and graphene. Due to the properties that carbon nanotubes have such as toughness

stiffness, carbon nanotubes have been shown to give advantages when used as fillers.

1.2.2 Nanostructured Metals

Nanostructured materials may be defined as those materials whose structural elements -

clusters, crystallites or molecules - have dimensions in the 1 to 100 nm range.Nano structured

metals exhibit wide range of properties such as corrosion resistance, yield strength, tensile

strength coupled with low density which keeps the total weight of aircraft down.

1.2.3 Anti-corrosion Coatings

Nano coatings are now used in turbine blades that have to withstand friction wear and high

temperature. In addition they are also used to increase the durability of the materials. For

instance, magnesium alloys are highly susceptible to corrosion due to high chemical reactivity

of magnesium. Nano coatings that are usually used these days for nano coatings are silicon

and boron oxides and cobalt-phosphorous nanocrystals. Researchers at University west in

Sweden used nanoparticles in the heat-insulating surface layer that protects aircraft engines

from heat. Tests showed that the service life increased by 300%.

The greater part of research and development into aircraft applications of nanotechnology

currently focuses on structural reinforcement of composite materials. Nanomaterials can

outperform carbon fiber, conferring significantly improved structural and functional

properties. Utilizing nanomaterials either as a reinforcing ply with polymer matrix type as a

fiber in traditional composite frameworks, shows huge potential in aviation applications. This

would prompt fuel savings, reducing expenses for airlines and travellers and reducing carbon

emissions.

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Coatings are commonly used in the airplane industry to protect the structures and surfaces

of the airplane from harsh conditions. In aviation applications, nano coatings have been

developed for: improved surface quality, improved thermal performance , increase the

reliability and durability of components , corrosion resistance against pitting and oxidation.

Hence, nano coatings decrease life cycle costs, reduce maintenance and increase readiness

by limiting equipment downtime through exhibiting better protection than conventional

coatings [7].

The market of nanomaterials for the aerospace industry is humungous and nanomaterials can

be utilized in almost every aspect as every gram counts when it comes to space endeavours.

Considering the literature available for the topic, it is almost impossible to cope with each and

every application. so, here the study is focused on the most widely researched and utilized

nanomaterial in aerospace structural application since its inception. with potential

implementation of carbon composite in aircraft manufacturing, Carbon nanotube based

composites have already replaced CFRP and aluminium alloys in most applications. NASA’s

computer modelling has predicted upto 30% weight reduction in launch vehicle with carbon

nanotube reinforcements.[8] NASA tested carbon nanotube based composite tank over

conventional carbon fiber epoxy composite at NASA’s wallops flight facility in virginia on may

16,2017, yielding positive results. not only that, but carbon nanotube films have been used to

produce aerospace grade composite eliminating the need of huge ovens or autoclaves[9]. All

these results show a bright future prospect of carbon nanotubes for aerospace applications.

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2. Carbon nanotubes
Carbon nanotubes are cylindrical structure molecules formed by rolling up a single layer of

carbon atoms(graphene). they can be either single walled or multiwalled( concentric layers

of cylindrical nanotubes). their aspect ratio can be as large as 1000, meaning they have really

small diameter compared to length, which makes them 1-D nanomaterial.

CNTs are chemically bonded with sp2 bonds, an extremely strong form of molecular

interaction. This feature combined with carbon nanotubes’ natural inclination to rope

together via van der Waals forces, provide the opportunity to develop ultra-high strength,

low-weight materials that possess highly conductive electrical and thermal properties. This

makes them highly attractive for numerous applications[10].

Figure 3 illustration of rolling up of graphene to carbon nanotube

The rolling-up direction (rolling-up or chiral vector) of the graphene layers determines the

electrical properties of the nanotubes. Chirality describes the angle of the nanotube's

hexagonal carbon-atom lattice. This forms the distinction between armchair and zigzag

nanotubes. armchair nanotubes have identical chiral index and act as a conductor unlike

zigzag type which act as a semiconductor.

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while multi walled carbon nanotubes have conductivity similar to metals, single walled carbon

nanotubes can either be insulator or semiconductor. Similarly, other properties which make

them multifunctional are: extremely resistant to corrosion, tensile strength upto 100 times

more than steel and very light-weight; also, theri thermal conductivity can range from 600

W/mW to as low as 0.1 W/mW[11].

2.1 Manufacturing of Carbon nanotubes

CNTs have probably been around for a lot longer than was first realized. They were likely

made during various carbon combustion and vapor deposition processes, but electron

microscopy at that time was not advanced enough to distinguish them from other forms of

carbon.

2.1.1 Arc Discharge method

The carbon arc discharge method, at first utilized for delivering C60 fullerenes, is the most

widely recognized and maybe least demanding approach to create CNTs, as it is somewhat

basic. However, it is a strategy that creates an unpredictable combination of segments and

requires further filtration to isolate the CNTs from the ash and the remaining reactant metals

present in the rough item. This method creates CNTs through arc-vaporization of two carbon

rods placed end to end in an enclosure that is usually filled with inert gas at low pressure. The

discharge vaporizes the surface of one of the carbon electrodes, and forms a small rod-shaped

deposit on the other electrode. Creating CNTs in high return relies upon the consistency of

the plasma curve and the temperature of the deposit forming on the carbon cathode.

Synthesis produces high quality materials but only in the milligrams range and isn’t

commercially scale-able[12].MWNTs can be obtained in the cathode deposit of the dc arc

discharge of pure graphite rods.In the case of SWNT synthesis by an arc discharge method,
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the incorporation of catalytic metal particles in a graphite anode is necessary, and SWNTs are

obtained as soot in an evaporation chamber[13].

Figure 4 Arc-discharge method for synthesis for carbon nanotube

2.1.2. Laser ablation method

In the laser ablation process, a graphite target is vaporized in a high temperature

reactor,nanotubes formed are condensed on the cooler side of the reactor and collected. two

laser pulses in succession are employed to increase the uniformity of the yield as using one

laser beam yields a large amount of soot.By varying the growth temperature, the catalyst

composition, and other process parameters, the average nanotube diameter and size

distribution can be varied. The laser ablation method yields around 70%wt and produces

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primarily single-walled carbon nanotubes with a controllable diameter determined by the

reaction temperature.

2.1.3. Catalyzed chemical vapor deposition

Without a doubt the most widely recognized technique for carbon nanotubes synthesis,

catalyzed chemical vapor deposition of hydrocarbons over a metal catalyst is a classical

method that has been utilized to deliver different carbon materials such as carbon fibers and

filaments. Large amounts of CNTs can be formed by catalytic CVD of acetylene over Cobalt

and iron catalysts supported on silica or zeolite. The most influential factors are: carbon

sources, catalyst and substrate.It is also one of the most successful methods as it has a broad

range of control over results. The chemical vapor deposition method is to split a carbon

containing gas continuously flowing through the catalyst nanoparticle to generate carbon

atoms and then generate CNTs on the surface of the catalyst or the substrate. The synthesis

process is to let the catalyst decompose carbon source (usually hydrocarbon gas) at a

sufficiently high temperature in a tubular reactor[14].

the mechanism by which CNT grows depends on the substrate and catalyst interaction with

each other. when hydrocarbon vapour comes in contact with hot metal nanoparticle, it is

broken down into carbon and hydrogen gas, while hydrogen is carried away by carrier gas,

carbon dissolves in the metal catalyst, with temperature approaching carbon solubility limit

with the metal,it precipitates and form CNTs.

When the interaction between metal and catalyst is weak, carbon dissolves all the way from

metal catalyst to substrate and there it forms precipitate between catalyst and metal, known

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as tip growth. While the interaction is strong, carbon is forced to precipitate from the top of

the metal particle, known as root growth[15].

Figure 5. (a) tip growth of CNTs. (b) root growth of CNTs

CVD is the only widely accepted industrial method for commercially viable production of

CNTs as it can produce large quantities of it, facilitating mass production,compared to other

two methods. The purity percentage of the CVD process is also high. Another factor is that

in CVD, carbon nanotubes can be directly grown on substrate, while in other methods , it

has to be collected. though one issue it faces is to free CNTs from catalyst support by using

acid treatment.

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3. Carbon nanotubes in Aerospace

Carbon nanotubes which can be used as a main constituent of composite material with

exceptional mechanical and electrical properties, very suitable for aerospace applications

because of their light weight, mechanical strength, and flexibility[16].Due to the unique

properties of Carbon nanotubes they are being widely studied as a constituent of composite

material. Nanocomposites based on CNT have significant attention in present years for their

applications in aircraft, military crafts, missiles and spacecraft because of their advanced

properties such as thermal stability, chemical stability, huge surface area, etc. The

incorporation of polymer nanocomposite affects the aerospace industry in the long run

starting from structure, design application and many more. Providing safer, faster and

eventually cheaper transportation is the main reason for the incorporation of polymer

nanocomposites in the aerospace industry[17].

The usage of composite based polymers in the aerospace industry has significantly enhanced

due to their outstanding superior features. Structures involved in the aerospace industry are

incorporated with electronics, which result in high quantity generation of heat. The composite

structural integrity may be affected if generated heat is not dissipated in a proper way. The

polymer matrix has very low thermal conductivity due to which they are not suitable for use

in the aerospace industry. For the improvement of thermal conductivity of the polymer matrix

various fillers have been used[18]. The filler may be in the form of a particle or fibre dispersed

in a polymer matrix. Nanoparticles have been integrated in a polymer matrix for

enhancement of thermal conductivity [19].The polymer composite materials with

reinforcement in the range of 1-100 nm are defined as nanocomposite. Most common fillers
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used for polymer reinforcement are Carbon nanotube (CNT), layered silicate nanoclay,

graphite, graphene and graphene oxide (GO). By integration of CNT into a variety of polymer

matrices, such as polyamides (Pas), polyimides, epoxy, polyurethane and polypropylene (PP),

numerous nanocomposites have been synthesized[20].

Figure 6 schematic view of CNT and graphene addition to enhance properties with their application

Here in fig.6, it can be seen that the carbon nanomaterials such as CNT and graphene have

been widely incorporated into polymers to develop functional materials. Both types of

composites are extensively studied for their filler properties and multifunctionality. Both

types have their advantages and shortcomings when it comes to particular applications. but

this report will only cover CNT filler nanocomposites as it is being subjected to extensive

research and availability of literature. A brief comparison is made with graphene fillers later

in the study.
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3.1. Synthesis of Carbon nanotube/Polymer Composite Material
There are a lot of techniques available for fabrication of composite with the main aim to

uniformly disperse CNT inside a polymer matrix. Depending upon the chemical and thermal

properties of the polymer matrix, desired performance indices of the composite and cost

constraints, a particular method is selected.

3.1.1 Solution Processing

This method employs excessive agitation aided with the rigorous mixing of CNTs with polymer

in a solvent, to deagglomerate CNTs and disperse it inside the host polymer matrix to form

CNT-based polymer.

Figure 7 Solution Processing method for Composite Fabrication

This technique is only possible when polymers are soluble in solvent. It is followed by film

casting and evaporation of the solvent which leaves behind a nanocomposite

sheet.Sometimes, shear mixing for a long time may lead to shortening of tubes and

compromise composite properties. Solvent evaporation sometimes gives time to CNTs to re-

agglomerate and can cause dispersion problems in composites.

3.1.2 Melt Processing

The melt based processing is viable for industrial fabrication for thermoplastics matrices

based CNT/polymer composites.in this process, at elevated temperature, thermoplastic

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matrix polymer melts and flow, which mixed with CNT, assist in de-agglomeration and

dispersion inside matrix. proportion can be controlled in this method.

This method has been successfully used for dispersion of CNT inside thermoplastic matrices

such as polystyrene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polyamide-6, and polyethylene. proper

care has to be taken as it takes place at high temperature and shear forces can deteriorate

nanocomposite.

3.1.3. In-situ Polymerization

This method is used for thermally unstable and insoluble matrix polymers. This method

ensures good CNTs dispersion in matrix and excellent intimacy between CNTs and matrix

polymers. It involves dispersion of CNTs in monomers followed by in-situ polymerization

leading to production of nanocomposite. This method results in a stronger and more active

interface between polymer and composite which is pivotal when it comes to structural,

electrical and electromagnetic applications[19].

Figure 8 In-situ polymerization process

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4. space applications of Carbon nanotube composites/nanoparticles
Among many polymer composites used in aerospace composites, epoxy are most widely used

in aerospace and military applications. Epoxy is defined as a prepolymer containing more than

one epoxide group and has low molecular weight. Epoxy resin, mostly incorporated as matrix

in advanced composites, is a highly cross-linked polymer due to its good chemical resistance,

dimensional stability, stiffness and specific strength and shows substantial adhesion to

embedded fiber. The major drawback of epoxy for its use in structural application is its

inherent brittleness. This weakness is overcome by the incorporation of CNT for the

reinforcement. Epoxy/CNT nanocomposites have a wide range of applications starting from

coating, electromagnetic interference shielding, automotive materials, aerospace adhesive

coatings and as packaging materials

Application Nanoparticle inclusion

Thermal protection system and space Incorporation of high temperature,

structure oxidation resistance fillers like silicates,
CNTs and POSS

Charge discharge adhesive coatings High aspect ratio conductive particles like
CNTs, graphite flakes and metals etc.

Composite aircraft extremes CNT, percolated coatings, appliques, resin

or veils

Propulsion tank and fittings Functionalized CNT

High temperature composite vehicle, Grow high strength nanoparticles such as

vehicle health monitoring. CNTs from fiber to tailor the interfacial
properties as a smart sizing.
table 1. show some key applications of nanoparticles in aerospace

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4.1. Electromagnetic shielding in aerospace
satellites and space vehicles are subjected to electromagnetic interference from lighting, solar

flares and other outside signals which may lead to corrupt data and faulty signals. so,

electromagnetic shielding is indispensable for the aerospace industry. Usually, metals act as

an excellent shield but due to added weight and environmental degradation, an alternative

material has to be used. Electromagnetic shielding is closely related to the electrical

properties of the composite. Although several conducting particles have been studied, such

as carbon black particles , carbon fibres or metallic fillers , CNTs have clearly demonstrated

better properties due to their high aspect ratio (L/d), higher strength and flexibility and lower

density, making them ideal as fillers. The type of CNT filler also impacts the efficiency of the

shielding, MWCNT, is considered to have higher permittivity which makes them more

effective[22] . The type of polymer dielectric property is also important as more the

conductivity of polymer,better the blocking of EM radiation. Increasing their weight

percentage in the composite enhances the shielding efficiency of the material but decreases

its mechanical properties and processability, so a compromise between these properties for

each application must be obtained[22]. the mechanical properties of a composite can be

enhanced by modifying its surface with CNT. The tensile strength and the modulus of

0.5 wt% functionalized CNT-incorporated carbon fibers (CFs) increase to about 46%

(4.1 GPa) and 37% (302 GPa), respectively, compared with those of pure CFs (2.8 and

220 GPa, respectively)[23]. Recently, tin coated copper braid used for transferring signals

and insulation for wires are being replaced by high performance CNT coatings for shielding

against electromagnetic interference.

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Some commonly used polymer nanocomposites are: PANI(polymer matrix) with

25%wtCNT, PMMA with 3% MWCNT, ABS with 10% MWCNT.

4.2. Static Discharge in Aerospace

polymer matrices in aerospace applications are essentially insulators, so fillers added to it

have to be conductive. The advent of nanotechnology in the field of polymer composite has

demonstrated the ability to circumvent the prevalence of such static charge accumulation. In

context to static charge extenuation, the fillers in a polymer matrix are called antistatic

agents. The purpose of an effective antistatic agent is to impart a conductive pathway to

dissipate accumulated charge in polymer based aerospace composite.The process of charge

transfer in filler reinforced composite is advocated to be governed by two different pathways,

1) the injection of charge carriers in polymer due the conductive reinforcement, 2) the

movement of charge carriers through hopping, tunnelling, ballistic transport, ballistic

transport, diffusion or metallic conduction[23]. common antistatic agents are: graphene, CNT,

carbon black and graphene oxide.

4.3 Coatings
CNTs could be used to replace carbon black in powder paints as conductive fillers for

electrostatic spray paintings, resulting in more durable and corrosion resistant spray paint.

multifunctional nanocoatings are currently in development which can sense corrosion and

also use aircraft skins for potential mechanical damage[24]. Carbon nanofibres, MWNTs or

SWNTs have been used to exploit intrinsic properties of carbon nanomaterials for improved

epoxy nanocomposites. CNT/epoxy composite coatings have also been used as high radar

transparency or radar absorbing coatings in military stealth application. They are also used to

modify the interface between reinforcements and the matrix[25].

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Different coatings used in aerospace include: anti-corrosion coating, flame retardant coatings,

damage sensing coatings, de-icing coatings.

black CNT coatings are being developed by NASA to reduce stray lights from optical payloads

acting on telescope housings.

4.4. Thermal Protection

Nanomaterials are extensively used in thermal protection systems for spacecraft to protect

them from re-entering into the earth atmosphere. CNTs are incorporated in a unique TPS

system, phenolic-impregnated carbon ablator(PICA), which improves its char strength and

resilience[26].

In one study, Imohelt at el, efficient conversion of microwave radiation to heat was seen, after

the shuttle columbia disaster, NASA fully integrated multiwalled carbon nanotube in low

weight percentage into pre-ceramic material used for repair of reinforced carbon- carbon

thermal protection material for space entry. the repair material system centered around a

commercialized pre-ceramic polysilyilene-methylene copolymer that converts into a silicon

carbide ceramic at high temperature. very low levels of microwave energy achieve bulk cure

temperatures of 1150 degree celcius in 5 min for curing[26].

4.5. Thermal , Radiation and Impact Protective Shields(TRIPS)

It has significance to the Crew Exploration Vehicle planned in Exploration Vision. For vehicles

that are required to perform an atmospheric entry of the vehicle is covered with an outer

thermal protection system (TPS) which protects the vehicle from the intense heating

environment. The TPS can also represent the first line of defense from the space radiation

environment, if the materials making up the TPS are chosen wisely. Materials made from low

atomic weight elements, such as hydrogen and carbon, are generally regarded as good

21
candidates for radiation shielding, since less secondary radiation is produced during the

collision process with high-speed cosmic rays and solar event particles.

Nanotechnology infused into structure has enabled TRIPS to provide safety against all three

hazards. Polyethylene is one such material used in radiation shield designs. While

polyethylene is not used in thermal protection systems, carbonaceous ablators like carbon

phenolic and PICA (phenolic impregnated carbonaceous ablator), which have already flown

on the Galileo and Stardust missions respectively, should have good radiation-shielding

characteristics since they are composed mostly of

carbon and hydrogen. Other TPS materials, such as

the ceramic tiles and blankets on the Space Shuttle,

silicon based ablators, and metallic systems, are likely

to have a reduced radiation shielding capability,

based on the low atomic weight rule-of-thumb. The

figure 9 shows the schematic of the TRIPS layer[27].

Figure 9 schematic of TRIPS

4.6 Composite Laminates

CNTs are extremely strong, stiff, and relatively ductile;tensile strengths for single walled

nanotubes range between 13 to 53 GPa (carbon fibers are in the magnitude of 2 to 6 GPa)

Small diameter of the carbon nanotube also presents high flexibility, strength, and stiffness)

Nanotubes present various possibilities to reinforce such structures, such as method of

composite laminating. The bonding is such that the resulting composite is much stronger and

resistant to environmental factors. Nanoscale reinforcement by CNTs on the interface greatly

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improves fracture toughness. The nanotubes work themselves as cervices on each layer to

hold layers together. As a result, composites are 14-30% stronger[28].

Figure 10Aligned CNT in polymer matrix

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5. CONCLUSION
With the advancement in every field of life, the requirement of aerospace and aeronautical

industry also changes such as the need for lightweight, thermally stable and high-speed

missiles, rotorcrafts, aircrafts and aerial vehicles are the prime focus. All these requirements

produce a need for more scientific endeavour in developing highly advanced systems and

materials that can be incorporated more successfully in the aerospace structure for enhanced

performance in every category. CNTs are the model candidate to fulfil almost all the demands

of the aerospace industry. The use of CNT/epoxy nanocomposite in distant and unmanned

guidance of spaceships and aircrafts was brought to focus by researchers. The fuel utilization

may be decreased, and the reduction in weight is expected by incorporating these

nanocomposites as the airframe materials and in wiring of the aircraft.

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