KY EPSCoR State Match: RID4: Subproject RIDG-19-002: Influence of Heat Transfer on Volumetric Oxidation of Thermal Protection Systems

Abstract: The proposed research will focus on improving the understanding of volumetric (in-depth) oxidation occurring inside microstructures of thermal protection systems by accounting for heat transfer processes that can significantly influence the volumetric oxidation behavior. Previous studies have ignored energy transfer by assuming a constant temperature on the surface. A new computational module that captures heat transfer mechanisms will be developed and coupled with existing fluid and structure codes. A fundamental understanding of volumetric thermo-chemical processes is essential for future space missions and a key focus of several programs at NASA.