Selected Studies in High Temperature Chemistry at the NASA Glenn Research Center

Several high temperature chemistry studies, which support NASA missions in both Aeronautics and Space, will be discussed. As will be discussed, collaboration with partners both within NASA and outside of NASA was essential to attaining the goals of each study. The following studies will be presented:
1. Oxidation of the reinforced carbon/carbon on the wing leading edge of the Space Shuttle Orbiter. This was conducted for the Leading Edge Subsystem Problem Resolution Team and involved experts in mass transport, non-destructive evaluation, and mechanical properties.
2. Thermodynamic activity measurement in rare earth silicates for coatings of ceramic hot stage parts in aircraft combustors. This was conducted with colleagues at NASA in support of a larger project involving NASA and the major engine companies.
3. Planetary Science in conjunction with universities
a. Thermochemical modeling to describe parts of the Venus atmosphere.
b. High temperature vapor studies to describe the possible atmospheres of hot, rocky exoplanets.
c. High temperature mass spectrometry for K/Ar dating of minerals.

These problems are all addressed with basic laboratory studies and collaboration across multiple disciplines is necessary.