Project Title:

"Improved Iridium CVD for Rocket Thrusters"

  94-1	11.02	2490		

  "Improved Iridium CVD for Rocket Thrusters"

Abstract:

Refractory Composites, Inc. proposes an improved Iridium CVD 
process with realistic potential to reduce the cost of iridium 
coated rocket thrusters by a factor of 2 to 3. A simple and 
robust process is planned that will greatly reduce the present 
reliability and cost concerns that both propulsion companies and 
their satellite customers have regarding the state of the art 
Iridium CVD process. In Phase I, Refractory Composites, Inc. 
will demonstrate CVD Iridium film deposition and develop 
detailed economic analyses for the process. In Phase II, a 
mature Iridium coating process for rocket thrusters will be 
developed and rocket thrusters will be coated and tested.

The multi-billion dollar commercial satellite launch business 
needs higher performance orbital insertion and stationkeeping 
propulsion systems in order to devote a larger fraction of total 
satellite launch mass to telecommunications and other functions 
that generate revenue. Iridium lined rocket thrusters have the 
potential to increase propellant delivered Isp and therefore 
reduce the propellant mass required for a given satellite 
lifetime. Airbreathing propulsion systems may also adopt this 
ultra-high temperature oxidation resistant structures technology 
for advanced turbine, ram and scramjet propulsion systems 
applications.

Key Words

Refractory Composites, Inc.
107 N. Langley Rd.
Glen Burnie, MD 21060