Growth of NanoBlack for Space Sensing

This project will utilise advances in nanotechnology to develop and characterise new concepts for space instrumentation applications. Many space instruments use black finishes for high emissivity performance across the infrared part of the electromagnetic spectrum. However, these finishes suffer from several issues, including ITAR, thus restricting UK trade in this area. This project will research, develop and test a novel high performance coating employing carbon nanotubes.
Objectives: Facilite a characterised UK supply of carbon nanotubes as a black coating for space instrumentation by using black body calibration sources as a test case for use in a £100m market that also includes detectors and baffles.
Innovation: The novel low-temperature application of carbon nanotubes will allow aluminium to be coated; this is a vital step to open up the majority of space instrumentation applications.