At the core of this collaboration is the Carbice Space Pad, an aligned carbon nanotube (CNT) material developed by Carbice Corporation. This novel thermal interface material (TIM) has already shown its value in the aerospace industry, demonstrating on-orbit success for critical government missions. Its next significant deployment is scheduled for early 2024 on MethaneSAT, an advanced satellite dedicated to tracking methane emissions globally.
Spacecrafts, which operate in environments characterized by intense radiation and large temperature variations, demand robust and efficient thermal management solutions. Traditional TIMs, such as grease and liquid silicone rubber, often pose challenges during assembly, integration, and testing (AI&T) phases, leading to potential damage and production delays. The Carbice Space Pad addresses these issues effectively, reducing material wastage and schedule risks associated with rework and destruction. Furthermore, its sustainability aspect is particularly noteworthy, as it contributes to longer-term performance in orbit.
Jennifer Cech Young, Director of Thermal Systems Engineering at Blue Canyon Technologies, highlighted the importance of this collaboration. "As innovators in aerospace manufacturing, collaborating with the deep tech trailblazers at Carbice strengthens our ability to launch quickly, launch well, and expand the limits of what's possible in space," she said. The reliability and efficiency of Carbice's aligned CNTs have been a game-changer for Blue Canyon Technologies, promising continued use in nearly all its satellite solutions.
The U.S. Department of Defense has also recognized aligned carbon nanotubes as a "technology of special interest," as evidenced by the recent bipartisan committee vote on the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act. This recognition underlines the material's importance for mission-critical applications in U.S. security systems. Carbice Space Pad's proven track record includes its use on the International Space Station and in various orbits, such as LEO and GEO, and in critical image-sharing constellations, such as those monitoring Ukraine.
Dr. Baratunde Cola, CEO and Founder of Carbice, expressed pride in the collaboration. "As deep tech innovators with a proven critical material for aerospace and defense applications, this is a natural collaboration that will allow both our companies to continue to innovate and build stronger spacecraft solutions," he stated.
Carbice Corporation, based in Atlanta, Georgia, leads in aligned carbon nanotube technology, operating the world's largest such facility. The company's leadership, including Dr. Cola, exemplifies diversity and a strong connection to the academic and technology communities in the U.S. southeast, with an expanding presence in Silicon Valley and the EU.
In addition to its aerospace applications, Carbice's technology also extends to industrial power and data sectors, including electric vehicle (EV) / mobility applications and mission-critical data applications crucial for U.S. national security. This collaboration with Blue Canyon Technologies signifies a significant step towards innovative and sustainable solutions in the aerospace industry, setting a new standard for thermal management in space.
Related Links
Carbice Space Pad
Space Technology News - Applications and Research
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