National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Small Business Innovation Research & Technology Transfer 2006 Program Solicitations

TOPIC: X6 Lightweight Structures and Materials

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X6.01 Radiation Shielding Materials and Structures
X6.02 Lightweight Pressurized Structures Including Inflatables
X6.03 Material Concepts for Lightweight Structure Technology Development


The SBIR topic area of Structures and Materials centers on developing lightweight structures technologies to support Lunar Lander, and Lunar Habitats, with relevant technology made available to the CEV and CLV programs. Lightweight structures have been identified as a critical need since the reduction of structural mass translates directly to additional up and down mass capability that would facilitate additional logistics capacity and increased science return for all mission phases. The Lightweight Structures program utilizes and combines multi-center R&D teams into a focused activity for developing lightweight structure technology for the primary load bearing structure of the pressurized elements of the Vision for Space Exploration (VSE) program. In addition, development for non-pressurized primary structures will be considered where there is synergy with the development of the pressurized structures. The major technology drivers of the lightweight structure technology development are to significantly enhance structural systems for man-rated pressurized structures by (1) lowering mass and/or improving efficient volume for reduced launch costs, (2) improving performance to reduce risk and extend life, and (3) improving manufacturing and processing to reduce costs. This topic area is responsible for mid-level technology research, development, and testing through experimental and/or analytical validation. Subtopics in this area include Radiation Shielding Materials, Lightweight Primary Structures, and Advanced Materials.

X6.01 Radiation Shielding Materials and Structures
Lead Center: LaRC
Participating Center(s): ARC, MSFC

Revolutionary advances in radiation shielding materials and structures technologies are needed to protect humans from the hazards of space radiation during NASA missions. All radiation species are considered, including particulate radiation (electrons, protons, neutrons, alpha particles, light ions, heavy ions, etc.) and including electromagnetic radiation (ultraviolet, x-rays, gamma rays, etc.). All space radiation environments in which humans may travel in the foreseeable future are considered, including low-Earth orbit, geosynchronous orbit, Moon, Mars, etc. The primary areas of interest for this 2006 solicitation are: (1) radiation shielding materials systems for long duration lunar surface protection for humans; and (2) lightweight radiation shielding materials systems for short term in-space operations for humans. Specific areas in which SBIR-developed technologies can contribute to NASA's overall mission requirements for advanced radiation shielding materials and structures include, but are not limited to, the following:



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X6.02 Lightweight Pressurized Structures Including Inflatables
Lead Center: LaRC
Participating Center(s): GRC, JPL, MSFC

This subtopic solicits innovative structural concepts that support the development of lightweight structures technologies that could be applicable to CEV, CLV and Lunar surface landers and habitats. The targeted innovative lightweight structures are for primary pressurized structures such as cyrotanks and crewed vehicles (landers and habitats). Innovations in technology are needed to minimize launch mass and costs, and increase operational volume for minimal launch volumes while at the same time maintain required structural performance for loads and environments. Of particular interest are the following structural concepts:


Development of concepts can include structural components, improved low cost manufacturing processes, methods of validation, and/or predictive analysis capabilities. Technological improvements that focus on risk reduction/mitigation, and development of reliable yet robust designs are also being sought under this announcement.

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X6.03 Material Concepts for Lightweight Structure Technology Development
Lead Center: MSFC
Participating Center(s): GRC, LaRC

This subtopic solicits innovative research for advanced material concepts that support the development of lightweight structures technologies that should be applicable for space transportation vehicle systems, propulsion systems, and planetary access and operations. Advanced materials are targeted that could be implemented into structural and propulsion systems for CEV, CLV and lunar mission vehicles, landers, and habitats. Innovations in technology are needed to increase specific strength and stiffness, provide radiation shielding, enable thermal management, and reduce Micrometeoroid/Orbital Debris (MMOD) damage potential while maintaining safety, reliability and reducing costs.

Advanced material systems and their corresponding manufacturing and processing techniques are desired. Examples would include, but are not limited to, advanced polymer matrix, ceramic matrix, and metal matrix composites; high performance metals material systems (e.g. advanced aluminum alloys, titanium alloys, super alloys, refractory alloys); hybrid material systems, multifunctional material systems, self-monitoring and self-healing material systems; and mature applications of nano-structured materials. Processing examples would include, but not limited to, composite fiber tape placement, non-autoclave curing, ceramic processing, freeform fabrication, bonding of composites, metallic thermal spray, and friction stir welding/processing.

Development of concepts can include material system characterization, methods of validation, and/or predictive analysis methods that improve understanding of the technology to reduce risk and need for conservatism in design and demonstration of integrated system performance. Damage tolerance is a specific area of interest to include analytical tools, non destructive evaluation technology and experimental techniques. NDE methods and techniques are needed to include 3D imaging and modeling of defects, and NDE technologies for determining early degradation of composites.


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