Shape Memory Alloys
Shape Memory Alloys
NASA structural materials engineer, Jonathan Lee, displays blocks and pistons as examples of some of the uses for NASA’s patented high-strength aluminum alloy originally developed at Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama. NASA desired an alloy for aerospace applications with higher strength and wear-resistance at elevated temperatures. The alloy is a solution to reduce costs of aluminum engine pistons and lower engine emissions for the automobile industry. The Boats and Outboard Engines Division at Bombardier Recreational Products of Sturtevant, Wisconsin is using the alloy for pistons in its Evinrude E-Tec outboard engine line.
iss035e007095 (3/22/2013) --- A close-up view of an alloy cartridge to be installed in the Gradient Heating Furnace (GHF) of the Kobairo rack for the Alloy Semiconductor experiment. Image was taken in the Kibo Japanese Experiment Pressurized Module (JPM) aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The Alloy Semiconductor investigation aims to develop a clear understanding of how semiconductor materials grow and crystallize in microgravity. The materials studied are also known to be useful as devices which convert heat into electricity (thermoelectrics).
An entranced youngster watches a demonstration of the enhanced resilience of undercooled metal alloys as compared to conventional alloys. Steel bearings are dropped onto plates made of steel, titanium alloy, and zirconium liquid metal alloy, so-called because its molecular structure is amorphous and not crystalline. The bearing on the liquid metal plate bounces for a minute or more longer than on the other plates. Experiments aboard the Space Shuttle helped scientists refine their understanding of the physical properties of certain metal alloys when undercooled (i.e., kept liquid below their normal solidification temperature). This new knowledge then allowed scientists to modify a terrestrial production method so they can now make limited quantities marketed under the Liquid Metal trademark. The exhibit was a part of the NASA outreach activity at AirVenture 2000 sponsored by the Experimental Aircraft Association in Oshkosh, WI.
Angie Jackman, a NASA project manager in microgravity research, demonstrates the enhanced resilience of undercooled metal alloys as compared to conventional alloys. Experiments aboard the Space Shuttle helped scientists refine their understanding of the physical properties of certain metal alloys when undercooled (i.e., kept liquid below their normal solidification temperature). This new knowledge then allowed scientists to modify a terrestrial production method so they can now make limited quantities marketed under the Liquid Metal trademark. The exhibit was a part of the NASA outreach activity at AirVenture 2000 sponsored by the Experimental Aircraft Association in Oshkosh, WI.
iss062e081047 (3/5/2020) --- A view of the Transparent Alloys Hardware Setup in the Microgravity Sciences Glovebox (MSG) Work Volume (WV) in the U.S. Destiny Laboratory aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
iss062e080867 (3/5/2020) --- A view of the Transparent Alloys Hardware Setup in the Microgravity Sciences Glovebox (MSG) Work Volume (WV) in the U.S. Destiny Laboratory aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
Personal Protective Equipment, PPE, Portrait Series, Welch_503059, Shape memory alloys, Shape memory alloy, Welch-Bey-503059, Glen Bigelow,
PTERA takes off from the Rogers Dry Lakebed on a flight to test the ability of an innovative, lightweight material, called shape memory alloy, to fold the outer portion of an aircraft’s wings in flight.
PTERA flies with the outer portion of its wings folded 70 degrees downward. The wings were able to fold in-flight thanks to a shape memory alloy material, which is triggered thermally and used in an actuator to move parts of the wing.
PTERA takes off on a flight to test the ability of shape memory alloy to fold wings in-flight. NASA, in this flight, observed the successful folding of PTERA’s wings 70 degrees upward.
A semiconductor's usefulness is determined by how atoms are ordered within the crystal's underlying three-dimensional structure. While this mercury telluride and cadmium telluride alloy sample mixes completely in Earth -based laboratories, convective flows prevent them from mixing uniformly. In space, the ingredients mix more homogenously, resulting in a superior product.
A semiconductor's usefulness is determined by how atoms are ordered within the crystal's underlying three-dimensional structure. While this mercury telluride and cadmium telluride alloy sample mixes completely in Earth -based laboratories, convective flows prevent them from mixing uniformly.
iss055e005543 (March 26, 2018) --- Expedition 55 Flight Engineer and astronaut Scott Tingle is pictured conducting the Transparent Alloys experiment inside the Destiny lab module's Microgravity Science Glovebox. The Transparent Alloys study is a set of five experiments that seeks to improve the understanding of melting-solidification processes in plastics without the interference of Earth's gravity environment. Results may impact the development of new light-weight, high-performance structural materials for space applications. Observations may also impact fuel efficiency, consumption and recycling of materials on Earth potentially reducing costs and increasing industrial competitiveness.
Samples of zinc-alloyed cadmium mercury grown on Earth (1g) and in space (ug) are shown at the same magnification. The space-grown crystal has a more uniform microstructure. Flown on STS-50 USML-1.
iss066e078282 (November 17, 2021) --- NASA astronaut Tom Marshburn works on the SUBSA-BRAINS space physics experiment, which examines differences in capillary flow, interface reactions, and bubble formation during solidification of brazing alloys in microgravity. Brazing technology bonds similar materials (such as an aluminum alloy to aluminum) or dissimilar ones (such as aluminum alloy to ceramics) at temperatures above 450°C. It is a potential tool for construction of human space habitats and manufactured systems as well as to repair damage from micrometeoroids or space debris.
Macro Photographs of 3D Print of NASA Meatball - Made out of GRX-810, an Oxide Dispersion Strengthened (ODS) High Temperature Alloy
A nickel alloy developed at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Lewis Research Center being poured in a shop inside the Technical Services Building. Materials technology is an important element in the successful development of both advanced airbreathing and rocket propulsion systems. An array of dependable materials is needed to build different types of engines for operation in diverse environments. NASA Lewis began investigating the characteristics of different materials shortly after World War II. In 1949 the materials research group was expanded into its own division. The Lewis researchers studied and tested materials in environments that simulated the environment in which they would operate. Lewis created two programs in the early 1960s to create materials for new airbreathing engines. One concentrated on high-temperature alloys and the other on cooling turbine blades. William Klopp, Peter Raffo, Lester Rubenstein, and Walter Witzke developed Tungsten RHC, the highest strength metal at temperatures over 3500⁰ F. The men received an IR-100 Award for their efforts. Similarly a cobalt-tungsten alloy was developed by the Fatigue and Alloys Research Branch. The result was a combination of high temperature strength and magnetic properties that were applicable for generator rotor application. John Freche invented and patented a nickel alloy while searching for high temperature metals for aerospace use. NASA agreed to a three-year deal which granted Union Carbide exclusive use of the new alloy before it became public property.
ISS025-E-008239 (19 Oct. 2010) --- NASA astronaut Shannon Walker, Expedition 25 flight engineer, uses a digital still camera to photograph Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-5 (BCAT-5) experiment samples in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station.
A Co-inventor of the Shape Memory Alloy, Spring Tire, shows the NASA Chief Technologist the first SMA Spring Tire Prototype during a tour of the Glenn Research Center, Simulated Lunar Operations Laboratory (SLOPE).
iss070e001580 (10/2/2023) --- A aboard the International Space Station (ISS) of the Transparent Alloys hardware installed into the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) with a sample cartridge. Transparent Alloys consists of numerous experiments to study various growth and solidification processes in alloys.
Shape Memory Alloy - SMA wire Alloy: W6 Size: 0.20mm (as drawn 36% cold work, 0.0079") Manufacture date: 01/08/2009 Quantity: 36mm (120 ft) NiTi 16pt wire Shape Memory Alloy - SMA wire Alloy: W6 Size: 0.20mm (as drawn 36% cold work, 0.0079") Manufacture date: 01/08/2009 Quantity: 36mm (120 ft) NiTi 16pt wire
Shape Memory Alloy
Shape Memory Alloy Rock Splitters, SMARS
Shape Memory Alloy Rock Splitters, SMARS
BCAT-3 - Binary Collidoidal Alloy Test-3
BCAT-3 - Binary Collidoidal Alloy Test-3
This nickel-alloy heat exchanger is among several that were 3D printed for the Mars Oxygen In-situ Resource Utilization Experiment (MOXIE), one of the instruments aboard NASA's Perseverance Mars rover. If conventionally fabricated, the heat exchanger would have required making two parts and welding them together; the 3D-printed heat exchanger is a single piece. https://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA24171
This is a computer generated model of a ground based casting. The objective of the therophysical properties program is to measure thermal physical properties of commercial casting alloys for use in computer programs that predict soldification behavior. This could reduce trial and error in casting design and promote less scrap, sounder castings, and less weight. In order for the computer models to reliably simulate the details of industrial alloy solidification, the input thermophysical property data must be absolutely reliable. Recently Auburn University and TPRL Inc. formed a teaming relationship to establish reliable measurement techniques for the most critical properties of commercially important alloys: transformation temperatures, thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, specific heat, latent heat, density, solid fraction evolution, surface tension, and viscosity. A new initiative with the American Foundrymens Society has been started to measure the thermophysical properties of commercial ferrous and non-ferrous casting alloys and make the thermophysical property data widely available. Development of casting processes for the new gamma titanium aluminide alloys as well as existing titanium alloys will remain a trial-and-error procedure until accurate thermophysical properties can be obtained. These molten alloys react with their containers on earth and change their composition - invalidating the measurements even while the data are being acquired in terrestrial laboratories. However, measurements on the molten alloys can be accomplished in space using freely floating droplets which are completely untouched by any container. These data are expected to be exceptionally precise because of the absence of impurity contamination and buoyancy convection effects. Although long duration orbital experiments will be required for the large scale industrial alloy measurement program that results from this research, short duration experiments on NASA's KC-135 low-g aircraft are already providing preliminary data and experience.
Binary Collidoidal Alloy Test-4, (BCAT-4) Flight Hardware
Materials and Structures for Extreme Environments - THERMAL BARRIER COATED SUPER ALLOY
Robert Johnson, top, sets the lubricant flow while Donald Buckley adjusts the bearing specimen on an artificial hip simulator at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Lewis Research Center. The simulator was supplemented by large crystal lattice models to demonstrate the composition of different bearing alloys. This this image by NASA photographer Paul Riedel was used for the cover of the August 15, 1966 edition of McGraw-Hill Product Engineering. Johnson was chief of Lubrication Branch and Buckley head of the Space Environment Lubrication Section in the Fluid System Components Division. In 1962 they began studying the molecular structure of metals. Their friction and wear testing revealed that the optimal structure for metal bearings was a hexagonal crystal structure with proper molecular space. Bearing manufacturers traditionally preferred cubic structures over hexagonal arrangements. Buckley and Johnson found that even though the hexagonal structural was not as inherently strong as its cubic counterpart, it was less likely to cause a catastrophic failure. The Lewis researchers concentrated their efforts on cobalt-molybdenum and titanium alloys for high temperatures applications. The alloys had a number of possible uses, included prosthetics. The alloys were similar in composition to the commercial alloys used for prosthetics, but employed the longer lasting hexagonal structure.
BURNER RIG TESTS IN BOTH HEATING AND COOLING POSITIONS - TITANIUM ALUMINIDE ALLOY TEST - HOT
BURNER RIG TESTS IN BOTH HEATING AND COOLING POSITIONS - THERMAL BARRIER COATED SUPER ALLOY - HOT
QUINCY BEAN OF MSFC’S ADVANCED MANUFACTURING TEAM, WITH TITANIUM ALLOY TURBOPUMP COMPONENT FABRICATED WITH MSFC’S ELECTRON BEAM MELTING SYSTEM (BACKGROUND).
iss038e045758 (2/12/2014) --- A view of Columnar-to-Equiaxed Transition in Solidification Processing-2 (CETSOL-2) test sample 7 which is to be installed into the Material Science Laboratory (MSL) Solidification and Quench Furnace (SQF). This investigation aims to deepen the understanding of the physical principles that govern solidification processes in metal alloys. The patterns of the crystals resulting from transitions of liquids to solids is important for processes used to produce materials such as solar cells, thermoelectrics, and metal alloys.
iss038e045760 92/12/2014) --- A view of Columnar-to-Equiaxed Transition in Solidification Processing-2 (CETSOL-2) test sample 7 which is to be installed into the Material Science Laboratory (MSL) Solidification and Quench Furnace (SQF). This investigation aims to deepen the understanding of the physical principles that govern solidification processes in metal alloys. The patterns of the crystals resulting from transitions of liquids to solids is important for processes used to produce materials such as solar cells, thermoelectrics, and metal alloys.
The purpose of the experiments for the Advanced Automated Directional Solidification Furnace (AADSF) is to determine how gravity-driven convection affects the composition and properties of alloys (mixtures of two or more materials, usually metal). During the USMP-4 mission, the AADSF will solidify crystals of lead tin telluride and mercury cadmium telluride, alloys of compound semiconductor materials used to make infrared detectors and lasers, as experiment samples. Although these materials are used for the same type application their properties and compositional uniformity are affected differently during the solidification process.
iss066e078283 (Nov. 17, 2021) --- International Space Station Commander Anton Shkaplerov of Roscosmos works on the SUBSA-BRAINS (BRazing of Aluminum alloys IN Space) space physics experiment taking place inside the Microgravity Science Glovebox. The study examines differences in capillary flow, interface reactions, and bubble formation during solidification of brazing alloys in microgravity.
iss040e139205 (9/10/2014) ---Photographic documentation aboard the International Space Station (ISS) of the removal of an Alloy Semiconductor cartridge for return on a future flight. The Alloy Semiconductor investigation aims to develop a clear understanding of how semiconductor materials grow and crystallize in microgravity. The materials studied are also known to be useful as devices which convert heat into electricity (thermoelectrics).
iss066e078285 (Nov. 17, 2021) --- International Space Station Commander Anton Shkaplerov of Roscosmos (from left) and NASA astronaut and Expedition 66 Flight Engineer Thomas Marshburn work on the SUBSA-BRAINS (BRazing of Aluminum alloys IN Space) space physics experiment taking place inside the Microgravity Science Glovebox. The study examines differences in capillary flow, interface reactions, and bubble formation during solidification of brazing alloys in microgravity.
This metal sample, which is approximately 1 cm in diameter, is typical of the metals that were studied using the German designed electromagnetic containerless processing facility. The series of experiments that use this device is known as TEMPUS which is the acronym that stands for the German Tiegelfreies Elektromanetisches Prozessieren Unter Schwerelosigkeit. Most of the TEMPUS experiments focused on various aspects of undercooling liquid metal and alloys. Undercooling is the process of melting a material and then cooling it to a temperature that is below its normal freezing or solidification point. The TEMPUS experiments that used the metal cages as shown in the photograph, often studied bulk metallic glass, a solid material with no crystalline structures. We study metals and alloys not only to build things in space, but to improve things that are made on Earth. Metals and alloys are everywhere around us; in our automobiles, in the engines of aircraft, in our power-plants, and elsewhere. Despite their presence in everyday life, there are many scientific aspects of metals that we do not understand.
Researchers have found that as melted metals and alloys (combinations of metals) solidify, they can form with different arrangements of atoms, called microstructures. These microstructures depend on the shape of the interface (boundary) between the melted metal and the solid crystal it is forming. There are generally three shapes that the interface can take: planar, or flat; cellular, which looks like the cells of a beehive; and dendritic, which resembles tiny fir trees. Convection at this interface can affect the interface shape and hide the other phenomena (physical events). To reduce the effects of convection, researchers conduct experiments that examine and control conditions at the interface in microgravity. Microgravity also helps in the study of alloys composed of two metals that do not mix. On Earth, the liquid mixtures of these alloys settle into different layers due to gravity. In microgravity, the liquid metals do not settle, and a solid more uniform mixture of both metals can be formed.
Researchers have found that as melted metals and alloys (combinations of metals) solidify, they can form with different arrangements of atoms, called microstructures. These microstructures depend on the shape of the interface (boundary) between the melted metal and the solid crystal it is forming. There are generally three shapes that the interface can take: planar, or flat; cellular, which looks like the cells of a beehive; and dendritic, which resembles tiny fir trees. Convection at this interface can affect the interface shape and hide the other phenomena (physical events). To reduce the effects of convection, researchers conduct experiments that examine and control conditions at the interface in microgravity. Microgravity also helps in the study of alloys composed of two metals that do not mix. On Earth, the liquid mixtures of these alloys settle into different layers due to gravity. In microgravity, the liquid metals do not settle, and a solid more uniform mixture of both metals can be formed.
ISS029-E-032410 (24 Oct. 2011) --- NASA Mike Fossum, Expedition 29 commander, conducts a session with the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-6 (BCAT-6) experiment in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station.
ISS028-E-036517 (2 Sept. 2011) --- NASA astronaut Mike Fossum, Expedition 28 flight engineer, conducts a session with the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-5 (BCAT-5) in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station.
ISS030-E-063957 (8 Feb. 2012) --- NASA astronaut Dan Burbank, Expedition 30 commander, conducts a session with the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-6 (BCAT-6) experiment in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station.
ISS030-E-063961 (8 Feb. 2012) --- NASA astronaut Dan Burbank, Expedition 30 commander, conducts a session with the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-6 (BCAT-6) experiment in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station.
ISS028-E-036580 (2 Sept. 2011) --- NASA astronaut Mike Fossum, Expedition 28 flight engineer, conducts a session with the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-5 (BCAT-5) in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station.
ISS029-E-032414 (24 Oct. 2011) --- NASA Mike Fossum, Expedition 29 commander, conducts a session with the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-6 (BCAT-6) experiment in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station.
ISS029-E-032412 (24 Oct. 2011) --- NASA Mike Fossum, Expedition 29 commander, conducts a session with the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-6 (BCAT-6) experiment in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station.
ISS029-E-032422 (24 Oct. 2011) --- NASA Mike Fossum, Expedition 29 commander, conducts a session with the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-6 (BCAT-6) experiment in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station.
jsc2020e017722 (3/30/2020) --- A preflight view of an Alumina ampoule containing an Al-10%Cu alloy sample. The thermocouple wires are secured to the outside of the ampoule with refractory bonding material, while the metal clips provide additional support.
ISS040-E-013856 (17 June 2014) --- NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman, Expedition 40 flight engineer, conducts a session with the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test (BCAT) experiment at a workstation in the Harmony node of the International Space Station.
ISS040-E-006891 (3 June 2014) --- NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman, Expedition 40 flight engineer, conducts a session with the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test (BCAT) experiment in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station.
ISS012-E-07685 (11 Nov. 2005) --- Astronaut William S. (Bill) McArthur Jr., Expedition 12 commander and NASA space station science officer, photographs Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-3 (BCAT-3) experiment samples in the Destiny laboratory of the international space station.
KEN COOPER, TEAM LEAD OF MSFC’S ADVANCED MANUFACTURING TEAM, WITH NICKEL ALLOY 718 PARTS FABRICATED USING THE M1 SELECTIVE LASER MELTING SYSTEM. THE M1 MACHINE IS DEDICATED TO BUILDING QUALIFICATION SAMPLES AND HARDWARE DEMONSTRATORS FOR THE RS25 ENGINE PROJECT.
jsc2022e072974 (4/15/2022) --- A preflight sample from the Fabrication of Amorphous Metals in Space (MSL SCA-FAMIS) investigation shows tungsten spheres embedded in a glass-forming alloy loaded into a tungsten crucible. Image courtesy of Douglas Hofmann, NASA JPL/Caltech.
jsc2020e017721 (3/30/2020) --- A preflight view of a Polarized light micrograph of an Al-4%Cu alloy sample solidified in the SUBSA furnace showing a columnar-to-equiaxed transition in the grain structure. The sample has been electrolytically etched to show grains of differing orientation in color contrast under polarized light.
ISS029-E-010999 (21 Sept. 2011) --- NASA astronaut Mike Fossum, Expedition 29 commander, prepares a camcorder for recording documentary video of the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-5 (BCAT-5) payload operations in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station.
iss071e580240 (AUg. 29, 2024) --- Roscosmos cosmonaut and Expedition 71 Commander Oleg Kononenko swaps sample chambers inside the Electromagnetic Levitator (EML) located aboard the International Space Station's Columbus laboratory module. The EML is a physics research device that measures the thermophysical properties of liquid metallic alloys at high temperatures.
ISS026-E-028660 (23 Feb. 2011) --- NASA astronaut Catherine (Cady) Coleman, Expedition 26 flight engineer, uses a digital still camera to photograph the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-5 (BCAT-5) payload setup in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station.
ISS029-E-010998 (21 Sept. 2011) --- NASA astronaut Mike Fossum, Expedition 29 commander, prepares a camcorder for recording documentary video of the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-5 (BCAT-5) payload operations in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station.
ISS026-E-028666 (23 Feb. 2011) --- NASA astronaut Scott Kelly, Expedition 26 commander, uses a digital still camera to photograph the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-5 (BCAT-5) payload setup in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station.
The Advanced Gradient Heating Facility (AGHF) is a European Space Agency (ESA) developed hardware. The AGHF was flown on STS-78, which featured four European PI's and two NASA PI's. The AGHFsupports the production of advanced semiconductor materials and alloys using the directional process, which depends on establishing a hot side and a cold side in the sample.
An etched sample of the aluminum indium alloy (magnified). When the hypermonotectic mixture is cooled in the Advanced Gradient Hearing Facility (AGHF), aluminum transitions to a solid first, trapping the indium in cylindrical fibers within the solid. Principal Investigator: Dr. Barry Andrews
ISS032-E-014593 (6 Aug. 2012) --- NASA astronaut Joe Acaba, Expedition 32 flight engineer, conducts a session with the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-6 (BCAT-6) experiment in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station.
iss066e114140 (Jan. 12, 2022) --- ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut and Expedition 66 Flight Engineer Matthias Maurer swaps samples inside the Materials Science Laboratory, a physics research device that observes metals, alloys, polymers, semiconductors, ceramics, crystals, and glasses, to discover new applications for existing materials and new or improved materials.
ISS019-E-013240 (2 May 2009) --- Astronaut Michael Barratt, Expedition 19/20 flight engineer, conducts a session with the Binodal Colloidal Aggregation Test?4 (BCAT-4) in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station. This experiment studies the long-term behavior of colloids ? fine particles suspended in a fluid in a microgravity environment, where the effects of sedimentation and convention are removed. Results from this study may lead to new colloid materials with applications in the communications and computer industries for switches, displays and optical devices with properties that could rival those of lasers.
ISS019-E-013244 (2 May 2009) --- Astronaut Michael Barratt, Expedition 19/20 flight engineer, uses a computer during a session with the Binodal Colloidal Aggregation Test?4 (BCAT-4) in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station. This experiment studies the long-term behavior of colloids ? fine particles suspended in a fluid in a microgravity environment, where the effects of sedimentation and convention are removed. Results from this study may lead to new colloid materials with applications in the communications and computer industries for switches, displays and optical devices with properties that could rival those of lasers.
ISS019-E-013241 (2 May 2009) --- Astronaut Michael Barratt, Expedition 19/20 flight engineer, prepares to photograph Binodal Colloidal Aggregation Test?4 (BCAT-4) experiment samples in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station. This experiment studies the long-term behavior of colloids ? fine particles suspended in a fluid in a microgravity environment, where the effects of sedimentation and convention are removed. Results from this study may lead to new colloid materials with applications in the communications and computer industries for switches, displays and optical devices with properties that could rival those of lasers.
ISS018-E-013863 (20 Dec. 2008) --- Astronaut Sandra Magnus, Expedition 18 flight engineer, works in the Harmony node of the International Space Station.
The Isothermal Dendritic Growth Experiment (IDGE), flown on three Space Shuttle missions, is yielding new insights into virtually all industrially relevant metal and alloy forming operations. IDGE used transparent organic liquids that form dendrites (treelike structures) similar to the crystals that form inside metal alloys. Comparing Earth-based and space-based dentrite growth velocity, tip size and shape provid a better understanding of the fundamentals of dentritic growth, including gravity's effects. These shadowgraphic images show succinonitrile (SCN) dentrites growing in a melt (liquid). The space-grown crystals also have cleaner, better defined sidebranches. IDGE was developed by Rensselaer Polytechnic Institude (RPI) and NASA/ Glenn Research Center(GRC). Advanced follow-on experiments are being developed for flight on the International Space Station. Photo gredit: NASA/Glenn Research Center
Marshall Space Flight Center engineers have teamed with KeyMaster Technologies, Kennewick, Washington, to develop a portable vacuum analyzer that performs on-the-spot chemical analyses under field conditions, a task previously only possible in a chemical laboratory. The new capability is important not only to the aerospace industry, but holds potential for broad applications in any industry that depends on materials analysis, such as the automotive and pharmaceutical industries. Weighing in at a mere 4 pounds, the newly developed handheld vacuum X-ray fluorescent analyzer can identify and characterize a wide range of elements, and is capable of detecting chemical elements with low atomic numbers, such as sodium, aluminum and silicon. It is the only handheld product on the market with that capability. Aluminum alloy verification is of particular interest to NASA because vast amounts of high-strength aluminum alloys are used in the Space Shuttle propulsion system such as the External Tank, Main Engine, and Solid Rocket Boosters. This capability promises to be a boom to the aerospace community because of unique requirements, for instance, the need to analyze Space Shuttle propulsion systems on the launch pad. Those systems provide the awe-inspiring rocket power that propels the Space Shuttle from Earth into orbit in mere minutes. The scanner development also marks a major improvement in the quality assurance field, because screws, nuts, bolts, fasteners, and other items can now be evaluated upon receipt and rejected if found to be substandard. The same holds true for aluminum weld rods. The ability to validate the integrity of raw materials and partially finished products before adding value to them in the manufacturing process will be of benefit not only to businesses, but also to the consumer, who will have access to a higher value product at a cheaper price. Three vacuum X-ray scanners are already being used in the Space Shuttle Program. The External Tank Project Office is using one for aluminum alloy analysis, while a Marshall contractor is evaluating alloys with another unit purchased for the Space Shuttle Main Engine Office. The Reusable Solid Rocket Motor Project Office has obtained a scanner that is being used to test hardware and analyze materials.
The Araxa mine in southern Brazil produces more than 80% of the world's Niobium. Niobium is used as an alloying agent in steels and in high-tech applications, such as electric car batteries. Brazil currently has 98% of commercial Niobium reserves in the world. The image was acquired November 5, 2023, covers an area of 16 by 17.1 km, and is located at 19.7 degrees south, 46.9 degrees west. https://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA26395
Matthew Koss lectures middle-school students about materials science research in space during the U.S. Microgravity Payload-4 (USMP-4) mission (STS-87, Nov. 19 - Dec. 5, 1997) in the visitor's center set up by the Isothermal Dendritic Growth Experiment (IDGE) team at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI)in Troy, NY. IDGE, flown on three Space Shuttle missions, is yielding new insights into virtually all industrially relevant metal and alloy forming operations. Photo credit: RPI
DR. BINAYAK PANDA LOADS A SAMPLE IN THE IMS-6F SECONDARY ION MASS SPECTROSCOPE’S ULTRA HIGH VACUUM CHAMBER. IT IS CAPABLE OF ANALYZING VERY LIGHT ELEMENTS SUCH AS HYDROGEN AND LITHIUM IN ALLOYS. IT CAN ALSO ANALYZE VERY SMALL QUANTITIES OF IMPURITIES IN MATERIALS AT PARTS PER MILLION LEVELS, AND DETERMINE ISOTOPE RATIOS OF ELEMENTS, ALL IN SOLID SAMPLES.
iss061e092274 (12/18/2019) --- A view of the Materials Science Laboratory (MSL) Sample Cartridge Assembly (SCA) in the Destiny module aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The Materials Science Laboratory (MSL) is used for basic materials research in the microgravity environment of the International Space Station (ISS). The MSL can accommodate and support diverse Experiment Modules. In this way many material types, such as metals, alloys, polymers, semiconductors, ceramics, crystals, and glasses, can be studied to discover new applications for existing materials and new or improved materials.
iss065e081297 (May 28, 2021) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 65 Flight Engineer Megan McArthur swaps sample cartridges inside the Materials Science Laboratory (MSL) rack. The MSL enables observations of microgravity's impact on a variety metals, alloys, polymers, semiconductors, ceramics, crystals, and glasses, to discover new applications for existing materials and new or improved materials.
Dr. Donald Gilles, the Discipline Scientist for Materials Science in NASA's Microgravity Materials Science and Applications Department, demonstrates to Carl Dohrman a model of dendrites, the branch-like structures found in many metals and alloys. Dohrman was recently selected by the American Society for Metals International as their 1999 ASM International Foundation National Merit Scholar. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign freshman recently toured NASA's materials science facilities at the Marshall Space Flight Center.
iss073e0071487 (May 15, 2025) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Nichole Ayers swaps sample cartridges inside the Material Science Laboratory (MSL) that supports high temperature space physics research using furnaces aboard the International Space Station's Destiny laboratory module. The properties of many types of materials such as metals, alloys, polymers, semiconductors, ceramics, crystals, and glasses, can be studied in the MSL to discover new applications for existing materials and new or improved materials.
An event attendee checks out a rover tire made with shape memory alloys at the Total Eclipse Fest at the Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland, OH on April 7, 2024. A total solar eclipse swept across a narrow portion of the North American continent from Mexico’s Pacific coast to the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada. A partial solar eclipse was visible across the entire North American continent along with parts of Central America and Europe.
This shot offers a bird's eye-view of a Fastrac II engine duration test at Marshall's Test Stand 116. The Fastrac II engine was designed as a part of the low cost X-34 Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV). The purpose for these tests was to test the different types of metal alloys in the nozzle. Beside the engine were six additional nozzels which spray a continuous stream of water onto the test stand to reduce damage to the test stand and the engines. The X-34 program was cancelled in 2001.
ISS040-E-076505 (25 July 2014) --- NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman, Expedition 40 flight engineer, conducts a session with the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-C1, or BCAT-C1, experiment in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station. Results from this ongoing investigation of colloids ? mixtures of small particles distributed throughout a liquid ? will help materials scientists to develop new consumer products with unique properties and longer shelf lives.
iss071e522745 (Aug. 19, 2024) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 71 Flight Engineer Mike Barratt swaps sample cartridges inside the Materials Science Laboratory (MSL), a research furnace facilitating discoveries of new and improved materials as well as new uses for existing materials such as metals, alloys, polymers, and more. The MSL is located inside the International Space Station's Destiny laboratory module.
ISS040-E-076510 (25 July 2014) --- NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman, Expedition 40 flight engineer, conducts a session with the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-C1, or BCAT-C1, experiment in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station. Results from this ongoing investigation of colloids ? mixtures of small particles distributed throughout a liquid ? will help materials scientists to develop new consumer products with unique properties and longer shelf lives.
iss073e0222456 (June 27, 2025) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Jonny Kim removes research hardware from inside the Materials Science Laboratory (MSL) located inside the International Space Station's Destiny laboratory module. The MSL uses two different furnaces that operate one at a time to discover new applications for existing materials, such as metals, alloys, polymers, and new or improved materials.
iss065e081296 (May 28, 2021) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 65 Flight Engineer Megan McArthur reviews procedures to swap sample cartridges inside the Materials Science Laboratory (MSL). The MSL enables research into microgravity's affects on materials such as metals, alloys, polymers, semiconductors, ceramics, crystals, and glasses. Observations may reveal new applications for existing materials and new or improved materials.
iss056e098995 (July 26, 2018) --- Astronaut Alexander Gerst of ESA (European Space Agency) works inside the Japanese Kibo laboratory module taking pictures of samples for the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-Cohesive Sedimentation investigation (BCAT-CS). The fluid physics research explores the sedimentary properties of quartz and clay particles. Mixed quartz and clay samples are suspended in a liquid for photographic and video downlink to scientists on Earth helping guide future geological studies of unexplored planets and improving petroleum exploration here on Earth.
iss066e086431 (Dec. 4, 2021) --- NASA astronauts and Expedition 66 Flight Engineers Mark Vande Hei and Kayla Barron inspect cables inside the Materials Science Research Rack. The space physics device enables the observation of many material types, such as metals, alloys, polymers, semiconductors, ceramics, crystals, and glasses, to study and discover new applications for existing materials and new or improved materials.
A close-up view of Bantam duration testing of the 40K Fastrac II Engine for X-34 at Marshall Space Flight Center's (MSFC) test stand 116. The Bantam test refers to the super lightweight engines of the Fastrac program. The engines were designed as part of the low cost X-34 Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV). The testing of these engines at MSFC allowed the engineers to determine the capabilities of these engines and the metal alloys that were used in their construction. The Fastrac and X-34 programs were cancelled in 2001.
In order to more easily join the huge sections of the Space Shuttle external tank, Marshall Space Flight Center initiated development of the existing concept of Variable Polarity Plasma Arc (VPPA) welding. VPPA welding employs a variable current waveform that allows the system to operate for preset time increments in either of two polarity modes for effective joining of light alloys.
iss073e0222463 (June 16, 2025) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Jonny Kim waves for a portrait while removing research hardware from inside the Materials Science Laboratory (MSL) located inside the International Space Station's Destiny laboratory module. The MSL uses two different furnaces that operate one at a time to discover new applications for existing materials, such as metals, alloys, polymers, and new or improved materials.
NASA Glenn’s Natural Gas/Oxygen Burner Rig is used to study the high temperature performance of various metal alloys, ceramics, and protective coatings for aero and space propulsion systems. The burner rig provides an easily accessible and economical method to simulate engine operating conditions to understand thermomechanical and thermochemical degradation of materials and structures. In the photo, Materials Research Engineer Michael Presby uses an infrared pyrometer to monitor the surface temperature of the material for a test on February 23, 2024. Photo Credit: (NASA/Sara Lowthian-Hanna)
JOHNNIE CLARK, BRIAN WEST, AND ZACK JONES OF MSFC’S ADVANCED MANUFACTURING TEAM, WITH MSFC’S XLINE SELECTIVE LASER MELTING SYSTEM. CURRENTLY ONE OF THE LARGEST METAL 3D PRINTERS, THE XLINE AT MARSHALL IS BEING USED TO DEVELOP AND CERTIFY NICKEL ALLOY 718 MATERIAL PROPERTIES AND LARGE MANUFACTURING TECH DEMOS FOR THE RS25 ENGINE AND THE COMMERCIAL CREWED VEHICLE PROJECTS.
NASA Administrator Daniel Goldin (second from right) visits the control room of the Isothermal Dendritic Growth Experiment (IDGE) in Remote Operations Control Center (ROCC) at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI)in Troy, NY, during RPI's 175th arniversary. IDGE, flown on three Space Shuttle missions, is yielding new insights into virtually all industrially relevant metal and alloy forming operations. Photo credit: RPI
iss066e086417 (Dec. 4, 2021) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 66 Flight Engineer Kayla Barron inspects cables inside the Materials Science Research Rack. The space physics research device enables the observation of many material types, such as metals, alloys, polymers, semiconductors, ceramics, crystals, and glasses, to study and discover new applications for existing materials and new or improved materials.
Pratima Rao lectures students about materials science research in space during the U.S. Microgravity Payload-4 (USMP-4) mission (STS-87, Nov. 19 - Dec. 5, 1997) in the visitor's center set up by the Isothermal Dendritic Growth Experiment (IDGE) team at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) in Troy, NY. IDGE, flown on three Space Shuttle missions, is yielding new insights into virtually all industrially relevant metal and alloy forming operations. Photo credit: RPI
ISS008-E-20613 (5 April 2004) --- Astronaut C. Michael Foale, Expedition 8 commander and NASA ISS science officer, works with a Slow Growth Sample Module (SGSM) for the Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-3 (BCAT) experiment. The SGSM is on a mounting bracket attached to the Maintenance Work Area (MWA) table set up in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station (ISS).