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Physics-based Modeling of Foreign Object Damage in Ceramic Matrix Composites

Award Information
Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Branch: N/A
Contract: NNX11CD78P
Agency Tracking Number: 105316
Amount: $99,998.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: A2.01
Solicitation Number: N/A
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2010
Award Year: 2011
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2011-02-18
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2011-09-29
Small Business Information
210 South 3rd Street, Suite 202
Laramie, WY 82070-3658
United States
DUNS: 017019105
HUBZone Owned: Yes
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Ray Fertig
 Principal Investigator
 (307) 460-4763
 fertigr@fireholetech.com
Business Contact
 Jerad Stack
Title: Chief Executive Officer
Phone: (307) 460-4763
Email: stackj@fireholetech.com
Research Institution
 Stub
Abstract

In this Phase I SBIR, Firehole Technologies will develop proof-of-concept modeling framework for a multiscale physics-based modeling tool for predicting foreign object damage in ceramic matrix composites (CMCs). We will accomplish this by adapting the core technology, multicontinuum theory (MCT), from our existing industry-leading software analysis tool, Helius:MCT, to the problem of impact damage in CMCs. Our approach will involve modeling the composite at three levels: constituent level (fiber, matrix, interphase), mesostructure-level (fiber tow architecture), and macrostructure level (impact test of a multi-ply laminate). The mesostructure and macrostructure will be modeled using an explicit finite element analysis code. The constituent level modeling will be carried out using MCT, which permits constituent stresses and strains to be exactly determined from composite-average strain. The objective of the Phase I effort is to develop the modeling framework and compare predicted results with published experimental results. In-depth study of ceramic physics, development of an experimental validation program, and commercialization of the software would be part of a Phase I effort.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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