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T0100-P

Creation of Titanium-Based Nanofoams in Reduced Gravity for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell Production

PI: Kristen Scotti, Northwestern University - Evanston

The objective of this research includes creating and examining titanium oxide (first two campaigns) and titanium (third campaign) freeze-cast materials (which are not nanoporous, but rather exhibit directionally aligned macropores) in the microgravity environment provided by parabolic flight. Work continued under T0149.

Article (October 2017): A cheaper way to stock up in space
Article (July 2017): Freeze-Casting Materials in Space: Meeting The Challenges of Vacuum and Microgravity
Paper (February 2017): Directional solidification of aqueous TiO2 suspensions under reduced gravity
Article (July 2016): Northwestern Experiment to Orbit Earth
Article (November 2015): Science In The Sky
Article (May 2015): Team to Fly on NASA’s Zero-Gravity Aircraft for Second Time

More updates at www.spaceice.space.

Technology Areas (?)
  • TA03 Space Power & energy Storage
  • TA10 Nanotechnology
  • TA12 Materials, Structures, Mechanical Systems and Manufacturing
Future Customers

Knowledge gained from the research may aid in the development of lightweight materials for the purpose of improved space systems, launch vehicles and payload systems. This will enhance the ability to extend and sustain human activities beyond low-Earth orbit (LEO) by creating a technology which increases the reliability and safety of access to space while also decreasing the overall costs.

Technology Details

  • Selection Date
    AFO6 (Jun 2013)
  • Program Status
    Completed
  • Current TRL (?)
    TRL 4
    Successful FOP Flights
  • 2 Parabolic

Development Team

Web Accessibility and Privacy Notices Curator: Alexander van Dijk Responsible NASA Official: Stephan Ord Last Update: November 16, 2018