Materials design for hypersonics

TitleMaterials design for hypersonics
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2024
AuthorsPeters AB, Zhang D, Chen S, Ott C, Oses C, Curtarolo S, McCue I, Pollock TM, Prameela SEswarappa
JournalNat. Commun.
Volume15
Pagination3328
Abstract

Hypersonic vehicles must withstand extreme conditions during flights that exceed five times the speed of sound. These systems have the potential to facilitate rapid access to space, bolster defense capabilities, and create a new paradigm for transcontinental earth-to-earth travel. However, extreme aerothermal environments create significant challenges for vehicle materials and structures. This work addresses the critical need to develop resilient refractory alloys, composites, and ceramics. We will highlight key design principles for critical vehicle areas such as primary structures, thermal protection, and propulsion systems; the role of theory and computation; and strategies for advancing laboratory-scale materials to manufacturable flight-ready components.