Our proposed multilayered, flexible, graded Z radiation shielding, RadFlexPro, provides radiation protection for astronauts in EVA for NASA's future space missions. RadFlexPro can be integrated into current space suit TMG designs and act as multifunctional layers, providing additional protection from micrometeoroids. Current RadFlexPro designs have three layers. The outer layer serves as a first barrier to decelerate high speed and high energy particles: the following layer decelerate particles more, and the final layer protects from possible secondary radiation. It is proposed that RadFlexPro will significantly increase radiation protection without compromising bulk and mobility in a space suit. RadFlexPro is a composition of several materials and layers, with different properties selected to protect against various types of radiation. Compared to single-material shielding, such as Demron, the same mass of Graded-Z coating shows increased radiation opacity; as an alternative, a lower mass of graded z shielding can provide the same level of protection as a single material sheild. In a typical graded-Z shield, the high-Z layer effectively scatters protons and electrons. Because the matrix of RadFlexPro is adjustable, the coating can be sprayed on surfaces, rolled or laminated, and/or dipped into solution. A matrix solution can be made with different viscosities and densities to suit several bonding techniques. Coated fabrics can in turn be cut out according to flat patterns and sewed with other pieces into a TMG configuration. FFD has considerable experience and hardware to sew thick, heavy, rubbery materials effectively.
Potential NASA Commercial Applications: (Limit 1500 characters, approximately 150 words) NASA currently operates EVA in LEO without any dedicated radiation protection. Future missions for EVAs to environments like the moon, asteroids, and Mars require additional protection against radiation. RadFlexPro could serve as a method to further protect astronauts from harmful radiation for NASA. FFD is interested in working on the next generation pressurized garments for NASA's use in EVA beyond the ISS. The added radiation protection of an astronaut within a highly functional pressure garment would insure a significant advantage for NASA in future space missions.In addition, RadFlexPro is an adaptable coating strategy, which could be incorporated into vehicles for radiation protection for humans and sensitive computer equipment. Its low mass relative to solid lead or aluminum shielding and flexible application options are an economical and efficient alternative to traditidonal vehicle shielding.
Potential NON-NASA Commercial Applications: (Limit 1500 characters, approximately 150 words) FFD has identified several potential Non-NASA commercial customers for RadFlexPro. In 2011-12, we conducted negotiations with Space Adventures and SpaceX to provide pressure garments for their commercial space flight program. We are the current supplier of high altitude, full pressure safety garments for Zero2Infinity. We plan to supply space suits to commercial customers by early 2013. In several flight plans for commercial space access providers like these companies, light weight, flexible radiation protection is a highly desirable feature. However, RadFlexPro is not for only space travel, and has lot applications for terrestrial use:-protection of personal in medical X-rays and radiation therapy,-protection of pilots of civil/military aircrafts,-protection of scientists working with radioisotopes,-hazard/first responder suits for radioactive emergencies,-military protective gear
Technology Taxonomy Mapping: (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.) Coatings/Surface Treatments Composites Hardware-in-the-Loop Testing Isolation/Protection/Radiation Shielding (see also Mechanical Systems) Joining (Adhesion, Welding) Metallics Nanomaterials Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE; NDT) Polymers Protective Clothing/Space Suits/Breathing Apparatus Simulation & Modeling Smart/Multifunctional Materials
