| About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2024 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Characterization of Minerals, Metals and Materials 2024: Process-Structure-Property Relations and New Technologies
|
| Presentation Title |
G-12: Material Characterization of Surface-functionalized Aluminum for Enhanced Liquid Transport in Microgravity Applications |
| Author(s) |
Daniel I. Egbebunmi, Graham Kaufman, Syed Gnani Peer Mohamed, Jeff Shield, Craig Zhulke |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Daniel I. Egbebunmi |
| Abstract Scope |
Surface functionalization using ultrashort pulsed lasers enables the creation of micro/nano-scale structures, offering control over wetting properties. This study focuses on enhancing wicking in Al, relevant for propellant management devices in microgravity. Two Al samples underwent femtosecond laser processing with distinct parameters, resulting in supercryophilic surfaces. The first sample was processed with a pulse count of 542 and a peak fluence of 6.083 J/cm2, while the second sample had a pulse count of 1035 and a peak fluence of 3.17 J/cm2. Subsurface analysis revealed onion-like layers in one sample, contributing to a hierarchical structure that enhances wicking performance. Contact angle and rate of rise (RoR) measurements were performed, along with comprehensive characterization using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), focused ion beam (FIB) milling, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis. This research contributes to advancing surface functionalization techniques for improved performance in liquid management under microgravity conditions. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |
| Keywords |
Nanotechnology, Characterization, Aluminum |