To address the NASA need for robust, high-fidelity, quantitative, there-dimensional (3D) nondestructive evaluation (NDE) of ablative materials and other spacecraft structures, Albireo Technologies LLC (ATC) proposes to develop a new Time-Synchronized X-Ray Compton Tomography (TESERACT). TESERACT technology is a powerful extension of the Compton imaging tomography (CIT) NDE technique, which is now used for the quality control of the Orion heat shield at Kennedy Space Center (KSC). By providing an innovative approach for data acquisition and signal processing, TESERACT offers robust rejection of multiple potential signal artifacts, enabling high-fidelity three-dimensional (3D) density profiling of spacecraft components, with high-contrast, clear images even in components with substantial thickness, such as thermal protection structures (TPS). Furthermore, TESERACT will offer simplified and more user-friendly operation, with faster scan rate and improved image resolution. In Phase I, ATC will demonstrate the feasibility of the TESERACT technology by developing the required data processing algorithms, as well as fabricating and testing a prototype system, with a projected technology readiness level (TRL)-4. In Phase II, ATC plans to develop a complete TRL-6 TESERACT system capable of automatic operation and demonstrate its NDE capabilities to NASA by testing it on relevant spacecraft materials and structures. At the end of Phase II, the TESERACT system will be delivered to NASA for further evaluation. Anticipated
Benefits: TESERACT technology can be applied to NDE of composites, metals, and other lightweight spacecraft materials resulting in high-fidelity, quantitative scan data suitable for accurate 3D component reconstruction, with significantly reduced signal artifacts, as well as faster and more user-friendly performance. TESERACT will increase the effectiveness of on-ground material development and quality control tasks for space exploration missions. TESERACT can also provide an effective solution for in-space NDE applications, for example on the ISS. Military and commercial applications of the TESERACT technology will include the NDE of composite aerospace multilayer structures composed of any combinations of lightweight conductors and insulators (metals, composites, ceramics, etc.). Additionally, TESERACT has significant applications in the oil and gas industries, such as detecting corrosion in pipelines through layers of thermal insulation.
