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RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY DIRECTORATE
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES
Directorate Brief Description:
The Research and Technology Directorate functions as a core resource for research and technology
skills and capabilities required by the present and future needs of the Aeronautics Research,
Exploration and Flight Projects, Science, and Systems Analysis and Concepts Product Units.
Opportunities exist in the research areas of airborne systems; structures and materials; and
aerodynamics, aerothermodynamics, and acoustics. The airborne systems area conducts focused and
foundational research and technology development projects in flight dynamics, automated and
human-in-the-loop guidance and control, reliable avionics systems, electromagnetics (primarily in the
Radio Frequency spectrum), image enhancement techniques, and crew systems and aviation operations for
aircraft and spacecraft. This area of expertise provides integrated, multidisciplinary system
solutions to complex aerospace requirements for performance and safety. Airborne systems researchers
develop analytical methods and experimentally evaluate methods and concepts in simulation, ground
facilities, and flight environments. The structures and materials area conducts research on advanced
materials and nondestructive evaluation technologies for aircraft and spacecraft structures. Research
studies focusing on analytical methods for improving structural analysis and design are developed and
validated by laboratory experiments. Research is also conducted in integrating advanced structural
and active-control concepts to enhance structural performance. Materials research includes
development of high-performance polymers, light alloys and composites, and the processing and
manufacturing technologies required to improve performance and reduce weight and cost of aerospace
structures. Service life testing is performed to establish durability of these materials under
simulated aircraft and spacecraft service conditions. Analyses and modeling are performed to predict
structural integrity and develop a fundamental understanding of failure mechanisms. Nondestructive
evaluation techniques and methodologies are developed to inspect aircraft and space launch vehicle
structures. The aerodynamics, aerothermodynamics and acoustics area performs theoretical,
computational, and experimental investigations in the areas of aerodynamics for advanced transport and
military aircraft; aerothermodynamics for aerospace vehicles and planetary entry systems; hypersonic
airbreathing propulsion for hypersonic aircraft and launch vehicles; and fluid mechanics and acoustics
for the design of modern aircraft, rotorcraft, missiles, and spacecraft across the speed range.
Maintains and ensures effective utilization of RTD wind tunnel facilities and conducts research and
development in the areas of models, instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and test techniques for
ground-based laboratories and wind tunnels to continually enhance wind tunnel productivity, data
quality, and customer satisfaction.
- The Crew Systems and Aviation Operations Branch performs research, for all aircraft classes, in
the areas of aviation operations, flight deck systems, and the associated crew interactions. The
Branch develops high-level and detailed operational concepts and requirements for aircraft operations
in the global airspace system. Additionally, the Branch explores technology opportunities and develops
crew systems concepts and procedures that enhance aerospace vehicle operations. Methods and guidelines
are then developed and implemented to evaluate systems operational performance as compared to
specified requirements or operational goals. The programs and projects supported are increasingly
large and complex. There is a need to apply an interdisciplinary systems approach as a means to
ensuring successful research products. Therefore, the Branch possesses cutting-edge knowledge of
aircraft operations and air traffic management procedures and facilities, as well as crew
functionality perspectives for communication, navigation, and surveillance systems and flight
management systems, interfaces to air traffic management systems, and crew systems interfaces to other
avionics systems on aircraft, as well as computer engineering, meteorology, project management and
systems engineering. Research is accomplished through the formulation, conduct, analysis, and
correlation of computational studies, analytical studies, piloted simulation studies, and flight
experiments. Performs a key role in the coordination and integration of activities with other NASA
Centers and governmental agencies, industry, and academia. The Branch is responsible for the operation
of appropriate concept-exploration research laboratories.
Point of Contact: Lisa O. Rippy, L.O.Rippy@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-6259
- The Dynamic Systems and Control Branch performs dynamic system and control research applicable to
aerospace vehicles and theoretical and experimental research and technology innovation in the areas of
robust control and adaptive guidance. Specific research activities include: control law and
algorithm development for aerospace systems applications, control system design to satisfy vehicle
stability and control requirements, active control technology impacts on vehicle configuration,
multidisciplinary mathematical vehicle model representations, investigation of uncertainty-based
techniques for control of behaviorally complex systems, development of adaptive guidance and
trajectory optimization methods for trans-atmospheric vehicles, and systems identification technology.
Research is accomplished through the formulation, conduct, analysis, and correlation of computational
studies, model experiments, analytical studies, piloted simulation studies, and flight experiments.
Point of Contact: Carey S. Buttrill, C.S.Buttrill@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-4016
- The Flight Dynamics Branch advances technology in prediction and knowledge of flight dynamics
characteristics, identifies and provides solutions to difficult atmospheric flight dynamics problems,
and supports development of new vehicle technologies for atmospheric flight. Flight dynamics research
includes work in the fields of attached and separated-flow (nonlinear) aerodynamics, static and
dynamic stability, control effector characteristics, dynamic modeling methods, flight-control-law
effects, flying/handling qualities, maneuverability, and out-of-control flight characteristics.
Research is accomplished through the formulation, conduct, analysis, and correlation of static and
dynamic wind tunnel experiments, computational aerodynamic studies, dynamically scaled model
experiments, analytical studies, piloted simulation studies, and flight experiments. The Branch is
responsible for the operation of all related flight dynamics research laboratories and the 20-Ft
Vertical Spin Tunnel.
Point of Contact: Daniel G. Murri, D.G.Murri@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-1160
- The Electromagnetics and Sensors Research Branch conducts research and technology development in
electromagnetics (EM) and electromagnetic-based sensors as applied to the design and development of
future aerospace vehicles and systems, and enhancements to the current fleet. Contributions include:
computations and measurements of electromagnetic effects on avionics systems; platform based in-situ
sensing using radar, lidar, reflected global positioning system, and other weather sensors;
characterization of EM properties of materials; measurements of EM radiation and radar cross section;
field penetration and scattering associated with advanced aerospace vehicle concepts; semiconductor
laser technologies and embodiment into new sensor systems; optical sensing and image enhancement
methods; and future EM-based sensor concepts. Research is accomplished through the formulation,
conduct, analysis, and correlation of computational studies, analytical studies, laboratory/range
experiments, and flight experiments. The Branch is responsible for the operation of several radar
cross-section and antenna test ranges and the High Intensity Radiated Fields Laboratory.
Point of Contact: Harry F. Benz, H.F.Benz@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-1943
- The Safety-Critical Avionics Systems Branch performs research in the areas of digital system
design integrity, vehicle health management, software certification, terrain database integrity
monitoring and structurally integrated avionics. Research areas include: mathematical proof-of-safety
properties for software and hardware; fault modeling and emulation; distributed dynamic real-time
upset detection and recovery; electromagnetic interference-immune system design and integration; fault
tolerance methods and architectures; reliability modeling; and system validation methods. Research is
accomplished through the formulation, conduct, analysis, and correlation of computational studies,
analytical studies, simulations, laboratory experiments, and flight experiments. The Branch is
responsible for the operation of the SAFETI Laboratory.
Point of Contact: Raymond S. Calloway, R.S.Calloway@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-6218
- The Configuration Aerodynamics Branch conducts applied experimental and computational research
focused on the development of advanced configuration concepts for all classes of fixed-wing aircraft
at subsonic, transonic, and supersonic speeds. The emphasis of this research is to conceive and
evaluate innovative aircraft planforms, control effectors, and propulsion system installations and
assess the suitability for further development. This research is coupled with the development of an
understanding of the flow physics and integrated aerodynamic characteristics associated with these
classes of aircraft. Assessments of vehicle performance at cruise, off-design, and high-lift
conditions are performed using experimental and computational methods. Research is conducted to
optimize all aspects of configuration external shape and to develop and use configuration shaping,
active and passive flow control methods, thrust vectoring for control, and advanced propulsion system
installations for improving performance, stability and control, and maneuverability. Research is also
aimed at understanding and optimizing the mutual interference effects that exist between aircraft
components such as the wing, fuselage, propulsion system, and external stores to significantly
increase performance.
Project Description: Projects might include assisting researchers in the planning and conduct of an
experimental or computational investigation to evaluate technology integrated into a vehicle concept,
assessing results, identifying remaining issues, and reporting results.
Desired Majors: Primarily Aerospace or Mechanical (with some fluids background) Engineering,
Occasionally a Computer Science major can be utilized.
Key Words: aerodynamics, fluid mechanics, applied aerodynamics, configuration aerodynamics,
computational fluid dynamics, wind tunnel test, data quality and assurance
Point of Contact: Laurence D. Leavitt, Laurence.D.Leavitt@nasa.gov, 757-864-3017
This project can be adapted for:
[ ] Post-Doc
[X] Faculty
[X] Graduate Students
[X] Undergraduate Students
[X] High School Students
- The Computational Aerosciences Branch performs computational research in aerodynamics and
acoustics with applications in all speed regimes, from subsonic to hypersonic flight. A major focus is
the development and validation of steady and unsteady solutions to the Reynolds- Averaged
Navier-Stokes equations. A goal of these activities is the timely transfer of validated technology to
other Langley researchers and to U.S. industry. The Computational Aerosciences Branch works to improve
fundamental understanding of physics associated with the fluid mechanics and noise generation for
complex airframe systems. Branch personnel develop new analytical and numerical methods and extensions
of existing computational methods for the analysis and design of complex three dimensional
configurations, including the exploration of massively parallel and distributed workstation-class
computers for affordable computations. In addition, the Branch is responsible for developing higher
order accurate algorithms and improved boundary condition procedures for the prediction of
aeroacoustic noise for advanced subsonic and supersonic aircraft. Also, the Computational Aerosciences
Branch conducts basic and applied research for improving the physical understanding of advanced
techniques and models for the prediction and control of turbulent flows, with an emphasis on the high
Reynolds number flows encountered on full-scale aircraft configurations.
Point of Contact: Mujeeb R. Malik, M.R.Malik@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-6226
- The Flow Physics and Control Branch conducts fundamental experimental and computational research
to enhance the knowledge and understanding of the physics underlying boundary-layer transition,
turbulence, vortical and separated flows. This understanding is used in developing advanced methods
for the prediction of boundary-layer transition and in developing techniques for controlling viscous
fluid flows. In close interactions with CFD code developers, experiments are also designed and
detailed flow field and surface data are obtained to validate CFD methods. Advanced wind tunnel and
experimental test techniques are applied across the speed range from low subsonic to hypersonic
speeds. A major goal of this effort is to transfer validated design tools and benchmark experimental
data to NASA researchers and U. S. Industry.
Point of Contact: Anthony E. Washburn, A.E.Washburn@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-1290
- The Advanced Sensing and Optical Measurement Branch is responsible for research and development of
experimental measurement and sensing techniques for aerospace research applications. The Advanced
Sensing and Optical Measurement Branch is comprised of an experienced, diverse research staff with
expertise ranging from analytical chemistry to optical physics to advanced sensors and actuators. The
Advanced Sensing and Optical Measurement Branch has over a dozen laboratories with a myriad of
research topics being pursued simultaneously. The goal of the Advanced Sensing and Optical Measurement
Branch is to continue discovering and developing radical new techniques to allow aero researchers to
measure and quantify all required aerodynamic properties associated with advanced vehicle concepts.
The Advanced Sensing and Optical Measurement Branch will accomplish this goal by looking into
non-intrusive, global, and time-dependent sensing methods.
Point of Contact: Kenneth D. Wright, K.D.Wright@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-4665
Project Description: Project title: Development of Advanced Instrumentation for Supersonic,
Hypersonic and Reacting Flows
Our research group develops several types of advanced laser-based instrumentation, mostly for
supersonic and hypersonic wind tunnel flows as well as combustion flows. Our philosophy is to take
the best measurement technology available outside NASA and to adapt it to NASA applications. Along
the way, we improve the instrumentation and use this advanced instrumentation to solve NASA problems
associated with programs such as Space Shuttle Return-To-Flight and the Exploration Program's Crew
Exploration Vehicle. Measurement techniques being developed include:
- nitric oxide (NO) and hydroxyl (OH) planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) imaging used for
flow visualization and velocity measurement in hypersonic and combusting flows
- Coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (CARS) used for point-wise measurement of temperature
and composition in combustion environments, including scramjet engines
- Rayleigh scattering used for multi-point measurement of multiple velocity components, density
and temperature in combustion, supersonic and hypersonic flows.
Opportunities exist for qualified candidates to participate in the development of these technologies.
Desired Majors: Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering and related fields
Key Words: Wind tunnel instrumentation, PLIF, fluorescence, CARS, Rayleigh, measurements, imaging,
flow visualization
Point of Contact: Paul Danehy, Paul.M.Danehy@nasa.gov, 757-864-4737
This project can be adapted for:
[X] Post-Doc
[X] Faculty
[X] Graduate Students
[ ] Undergraduate Students
[ ] High School Students
- The Aerothermodynamics Branch assesses, optimizes, and benchmarks the nation's access-to-space and
planetary entry vehicles. The Branch research activities are aimed at the development of new
aerothermodynamic technologies to enable and enhance vehicle performance. Branch researchers perform
experimental and computational research to enhance the understanding of complex flowfield physics
associated with aerospace vehicles. The Branch develops rapid, high fidelity
computational/experimental tools required for vehicle assessment and technology advancement. The
Aerothermodynamics Branch is the Agency preeminent research organization in experimental/computational
aerothermodynamics, and maintains and develops the capability to rapidly/accurately assesses,
optimize, and benchmark aerodynamic characteristics and aeroheating environment of aerospace/planetary
vehicles from low earth orbit and beyond, to approach and landing (across hypersonic-to-subsonic speed
regime).
Point of Contact: N. Ronald Merski, N.R.Merski@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-7539
- The Hypersonic Airbreathing Propulsion Branch performs multidisciplinary research to develop advanced
technology for hypersonic airbreathing propulsion systems for aerospace vehicles. The focus is on
airframe integrated engine concepts having high performance over a wide range of flight Mach numbers.
Synergistic research provides integrated multidisciplinary methods for design and analysis with both
fundamental physics and phenomenological models including effects of turbulence, mixing, finite-rate
reactions, fuel injection, and geometry on ignition, combustion and thrust performance across the
speed regime from takeoff to orbital velocity. Innovative concepts for vehicle-integrated
airbreathing-engines are developed and evaluated.
Complete airframe-engine performance characteristics for both ground-test and flight-test conditions
are predicted with experimentally verified analysis methods. Innovative experimental techniques,
diagnostics, and facilities for airframe integrated engines are developed. Tests of complete subscale
and large-scale engines are made to assess and to improve integrated engine and aero thermostructural
performance.
Point of Contact:Kenneth E. Rock, Kenneth.E.Rock@nasa.gov, 757-864-6265
- The Gas, Fluid, and Acoustics Research Support Branch provides a highly
skilled, research integrated, technical team to support the projects and base research of the
Structural Acoustics, Aeroacoustics, Flow Physics and Controls, Hypersonic Propulsion and
Aerothermodynamics, Branches. In addition, Branch personnel ensure the safe, efficient, operation,
maintenance, repair, upgrade and enhancements to the wide variety of unique facilities and research
apparatus owned by the research branches. In addition, the Branch provides specialist support in
research instrumentation, optical setup, and data systems, facility systems, and advanced test
techniques. Also, the Branch provides transparent checks and balances in NASA/center mandated
policies, directives, procedures and guidelines such as configuration management, process systems
certification, wind tunnel model systems criteria, facility safety, reliability and quality assurance
of all facility and research components. This approach allows research branches to concentrate fully
on research with only minimal oversight of these requirements. Finally, the Branch provides necessary
government oversight in safety, efficiency, upgrade and maintenance of systems as well as,
distribution of high-pressure air at the 1247E-compressor station for the purpose of ensuring
continual supply of high-pressure air to all of the center users.
Point of Contact: Lynn D. Curtis, L.D.Curtis@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-5449
- The Structural Acoustics Branch conducts research to understand and control
interior noise and its effects on aircraft, rotorcraft, and spacecraft structures, passengers, and
crew. The Structural Acoustics Branch develops advanced active and passive noise control concepts for
vehicles of conventional, advanced metallic and composite materials. Also, Structural Acoustics Branch
personnel conduct research to understand, predict, and control the response of vehicle structures of
advanced metallic and composite materials to intense acoustic loads, for acoustic fatigue avoidance.
The Structural Acoustics Branch conducts atmospheric propagation research to improve prediction of
generated noise and sonic booms at long distances. Branch personnel perform experiments and analyses
to improve understanding and predict the magnitude of noise reduction as a result of specialized duct
absorbing materials for both engine inlets and hot engine exhausts. The Branch conducts subjective
acoustics research aimed at establishing verified, quantifiable noise criteria for community noise
impact and passenger comfort and acceptance. The research utilizes unique facilities for simulating
the noise and vibration environments of flight structures as well as passenger and crew compartments.
Point of Contact: Kevin P. Shepherd, K.P.Shepherd@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-3583
- The Aeroacoustics Branch plans and conducts research aimed at understanding, predicting and
controlling the noise of all classes of aircraft. Research includes fundamental, theoretical,
analytical, and experimental components as well as applied efforts in support of NASA's Quiet Aircraft
Technology program. Research emphasis is on the fluid mechanics and acoustics of jets, nacelle and fan
aeroacoustics, propulsion/airframe aeroacoustics, and atmospheric sound propagation. Objectives of the
research are to understand noise generation processes, to develop methods for predicting acoustics and
flow fields and their interactions, and to identify and demonstrate noise reduction and control
techniques. Experimental research is conducted in anechoic facilities, laboratories, wind tunnels, and
on vehicles in flight. Code development is based on CFD based methods in conjunction with the
Lighthill analogy, as well as empirical and semi-empirical aircraft systems noise prediction such as
the Aircraft Noise Prediction Program (ANOPP).
Point of Contact: Charlotte E. Whitfield, C.E.Whitfield@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-7686
- The Aeroelasticity Branch (AB) conducts a broad-based research and
technology program to obtain a fundamental understanding of aeroelastic and unsteady-aerodynamic
phenomena experienced by aerospace vehicles, especially in the transonic speed regime. The program
content includes theoretical aeroelasticity, experimental aeroelasticity, and advanced
aeroservoelastic concepts. To support the Agency, the Department of Defense, and the US aerospace
industry, the AB: 1) performs aeroelastic, aeroservoelastic, and unsteady aerodynamic analyses for
fixed-wing and rotorcraft configurations at the appropriate level of fidelity for the problem at hand;
2) conducts aeroelastic, aeroservoelastic, and unsteady aerodynamic experiments, primarily in the
Langley Transonic Dynamics Tunnel, to validate methodologies and concepts, to support
flutter-clearance and other industry tests, and to gain valuable insights available only through
testing; 3) provides expert aeroelastic, aeroservoelastic, and unsteady-aerodynamic consultation for
critical Agency and National urgent response projects; and 4) creates and develops
computational-fluid-dynamic, computational-aeroelastic, and computational-aeroservoelastic analysis
tools that advance the state of the art in aeroelasticity through novel and creative application of
aeroelastic knowledge.
Point of Contact: Stanley R. Cole, S.R.Cole@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-1207
- The Durability, Damage Tolerance, and Reliability Branch conducts a
broad-based research and technology program that evaluates concepts; quantifies behavior, durability,
and damage tolerance; develops efficient physics-based analytical and computational methods and
validates performance of advanced materials and structures for aerospace applications in support of
the Agency, the Department of Defense, and the aerospace industry. The branch technical program
content includes: advanced subsonic, supersonic, hypersonic and space-access airframe concepts;
advanced materials modeling and simulation, characterization, and applications; verified methods for
fatigue, fracture and failure; damage tolerance, durability, structural integrity, and residual
strength of anisotropic and elastically tailored, multifunctional, adaptable structures, computational
mechanics with experimental validation; probabilistic and uncertainty-based methods; radiation
physics; advanced simulation and design methodologies; verified hierarchical, multi-scale analysis
methods for anisotropic structures; and materials and structures technologies for space structures and
aeroshells. To support NASA programs and projects, the DDTRB: 1) performs analyses and experiments to
determine the response of coupon-level and complex metallic and composite structures and materials
subjected to static and time-dependent loading conditions; 2) evaluates material and structural
behavior in order to develop advanced materials and methods of testing and analysis, and validate
material concepts and analyses by performing coupon-level and subcomponent tests; 3) develops
computationally-efficient techniques and methodologies for utilizing advanced materials and structures
and the associated concepts including smart, multifunctional, and radiation protective materials and
structures; 4) creates advanced light-weight structural concepts that exploit new material and
material concepts using cost-effective fabrication processes to enable advanced vehicles. Research is
accomplished through the formulation, conduct, analysis, correlation, documentation, and dissemination
of various research studies.
Point of Contact: Jonathan B. Ransom, J.B.Ransom@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-2907
- The Structural Dynamics Branch conducts a broad-based research and
technology program to predict and control structural dynamics of aerospace systems and ground
operational characteristics in support of the Agency, the Department of Defense, and the aerospace
industry. The branch technical program includes spacecraft dynamics and shape control, aircraft
dynamics, landing dynamics, and impact dynamics. To support NASA programs and projects, the SDB
performs modeling and testing of ultra-lightweight and inflatable structures, develops control
concepts for precision management of thin mirrors for space observations and solar sail development.
The SDB performs analysis and testing for aircraft morphing, and on-board vibration sensor and
health-monitoring systems. The Branch develops new technology for tire mechanical properties and
winter runway friction measurement, impact modeling, impact testing, and test/analysis correlation.
Point of Contact: Jill M. Marlowe, J.M.Marlowe@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-2256
- The Structural Mechanics and Concepts Branch conducts analyses and
experiments to develop innovative structural concepts for all environments and to determine the
response of complex metallic and composite structures subjected to static and time-dependent loading
conditions and temperatures ranging from cryogenic to elevated temperature and investigates structural
behavior, develops advanced methods of analysis and design, and validates analyses by performing tests
of subcomponents and large-scale structures. The Structural Mechanics and Concepts Branch also
develops structurally efficient, cost-effective, durable, reliable, high-precision, deployable and
inflatable structural concepts that integrate the benefits of advanced composite and metallic
materials and conceives of new test techniques and measurement technologies for static and
time-dependent combined-loading conditions. The objectives of the Structural Mechanics and Concepts
Branch research are to develop verified innovative thermal structures concepts and technologies to
enable advanced aircraft, spacecraft and space transportation systems and verified advanced structures
technologies that provide the underlying scientific basis for reducing structural weight, and risk for
advanced aircraft, rotorcraft, spacecraft, and space transportation systems; develop and demonstrate
advanced light-weight structural concepts that exploit new materials and material concepts using
cost-effective fabrication processes to enable advanced vehicles; develop and verify the underlying
mechanics and design technologies for advanced aerospace structures technologies for all loading
conditions and all environments; and develop and maintain unique experimental capabilities for
aerospace structures research and development.
Point of Contact: H. Kevin Rivers, H.K.Rivers@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-9393
Project Description: The objective of this research is to develop polymer based materials with
properties specifically designed for use on spacecraft or in future exploration missions. Lightweight,
high-performance organic polymers with unique and specific property combinations such as inherent
resistance to atomic oxygen and various types of radiation, optical transparency, electrical and
thermal conductivity are needed for use in future space exploration missions. The materials must also
exhibit a combination of other desirable features such as good processability, high mechanical
properties, low outgassing, low moisture uptake, and adhesion to various substrates. Polymers used as
matrix resins may require useful properties over a broad temperature range and compatibility with
liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen. Our approach is to synthesize novel polymers containing appropriate
moieties postulated to improve specific properties. To achieve certain property combinations, the use
various additives (typically of nanometer dimensions) that are either commercially available or custom
synthesized or chemically modified, offer significant potential. Examples of nanosized additives
include exfoliated graphite, carbon nanotubes, carbon nanofibers, aluminum nitride and boron nitride.
The materials will be processed into various forms (i.e., films, fiber, composites) and tested under
simulated space environmental and/or operational conditions.
Desired Majors: Chemistry and Materials Science
Key Words: Polymers; Polymer Matrix Composites; Nanocomposites
Point of Contact: Dr. John W. Connell, John.W.Connell@nasa.gov, 757-864-4264
Project can be adapted for:
[X] Post-Doc
[X] Faculty
[X] Graduate Students
[X] Undergraduate Students
[ ] High School Students
- The Advanced Materials and Processing Branch conducts a broad-based materials research and technology
program to develop efficient, high-performance concepts for aerospace applications in support of the
Agency, the Department of Defense, and the aerospace industry. The branch technical program content
includes: development of polymers and composites, high-temperature adhesives, and refractory ceramics
for structural application, space durable materials, radiation-shielding materials for human
protection, materials space exposure experiments non-traditional, multidisciplinary research areas
including computational materials and biologically inspired, smart nanostructured materials focused on
electroactive polymers, shape memory alloys, carbon nanotubes, and biomimetic materials. To support
NASA programs and projects, the AMPB: 1) develops materials from the chemical design phase to
materials synthesis and processing, to meet performance requirements for aerospace vehicle and systems
concepts 2) provides independent assessments of proposed concepts 3) supports investigation efforts
where materials expertise is required 4) performs research in high risk materials concepts with far
term payoffs 5) supports technology transfer of materials technologies to the commercial sector.
Research is accomplished through the formulation, conduct, analysis, correlation, documentation, and
dissemination of various research studies.
Point of Contact: Joycelyn S. Harrison, J.S.Harrison@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-4275
Project Description: 1) electroactive materials and 2) nano-structured advanced materials for
aerospace applications
Desired Majors: Materials Science and engineering, experimental physics, or chemical engineering
Key Words: Electroactive materials, nano-structured materials, processing, characterization, and
applications in advanced aerospace technologies
Point of Contact: Ji Su, Ji.Su-1@nasa.gov, 757-864-8336
This project can be adapted for:
[ ] Post-Doc
[ ] Faculty
[X] Graduate Students
[X] Undergraduate Students
[ ] High School Students
- The Nondestructive Evaluation Sciences Branch conducts a broad-based research and development
program in advanced nondestructive evaluation (NDE) and health monitoring technologies in support of
the Agency, the Department of Defense, and the aerospace industry. The program focuses on development
of cost-effective intelligent sensor systems to ensure structural integrity, configuration control,
reliability, and safety for aerospace vehicles. The branch technical program content includes,
physics-based simulations and analysis; advanced nano-, fiber optic, and MEMS sensor development;
prototype instrumentation development for on-board and external NDE and integrated structural health
management. To support NASA programs and projects, the NESB: 1) advances the foundation of
physics-based science of energy/matter interactions, 2) develops technology prototypes for NDE sensor
systems, 3) optimizes and assesses emerging NDE technologies for advanced applications in space
exploration and aeronautics, and 4) transfers the new technologies to end users in NASA, other
government agencies, and industry.
Point of Contact: William P. Winfree, W.Winfree@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-4970
Project Description: NESB is conducting research in the development of multifunctional materials with
inherent structural health monitoring through the utilization of nanostructured materials. Research
includes electron transport mechanisms in nanostructured systems and the dependence of the transport
on external variables such as material degradation and strain, nanoelectromechanical systems for
vehicle health monitoring, and integration of nanosensors into vehicle health monitoring systems.
Desired Majors: Physics, electrical engineering
Key Words: Nondestructive evaluation, vehicle health management, nanosensors
Point of Contact: Buzz Wincheski, Russell.A.Wincheski@nasa.gov
This project can be adapted for:
[X] Post-Doc
[X] Faculty
[X] Graduate Students
[ ] Undergraduate Students
[ ] High School Students
- The Applied Technologies and Testing Branch develops innovative structures and materials
experimentation to identify unique phenomena, interrogate new theories, and quantify material and
structural behavior using complex research facilities and equipment safely for validating aerospace
concepts and applications in support of NASA, the Department of Defense, the aerospace industry and
others. The ATTB management team leads a highly trained, flexible and adaptive workforce that has
unique corporate knowledge and skills that are integral to the success of the research team and works
closely with other organizations to solve critical research challenges to accomplish research
milestones while optimizing facility usage and minimizing expenses. To accomplish NASA programs and
projects the ATTB staff provides expertise in the following areas: large wind tunnel testing, wind
tunnel test article preparation and installation, large facility maintenance oversight, piloting
flutter models, test article modification, instrumentation, and data acquisition; large structure
suspension and instrumentation, landing gear and tire dynamic testing, structural characterization at
extreme low temperatures, safe large test carriage testing, winter runway characterization, test
article modification, instrumentation and data acquisition; polymer materials development, testing and
characterization, large structure set-up and dynamics testing, structural characterization at extreme
elevated temperatures, thin film development, characterization, testing and applications,
characterization of the acoustic properties of nonlinear materials, test article modification,
instrumentation and data acquisition; and aerospace metals development, testing and characterization,
large structure failure testing, structural characterization at extreme temperatures, fracture
mechanics testing, materials durability and damage tolerance testing, test article modification,
instrumentation and data actuation.
Point of Contact: Charles A. Poupard, C.A.Poupard@larc.nasa.gov, 757-864-5716
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