“Materials design for hypersonics” (2024), by Adam B. Peters et al. Materials Science research paper. Original abstract below, unchanged. A free PDF is available.

Materials design for hypersonics

Adam B. Peters, Dajie Zhang, Samuel Y. Chen et al. · April 18, 2024 · Materials Science

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.

Free PDF DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46753-3