Chinese scientists are making significant strides in space-based materials research aboard their orbiting space station. The recent studies focus on high-performance refractory alloys, rare metal materials with melting points exceeding 2,000 degrees Celsius.
Led by a team from Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU), the research marks a substantial leap forward in the theoretical study of space materials science. Since April 2021, over 10 types of high-performance refractory alloy samples have undergone six rounds of in-orbit experiments within the space station's containerless experiment cabinet. This specialized cabinet keeps samples suspended, preventing shape changes that can occur from contact with container surfaces.
Key experiments conducted under microgravity conditions include electrostatic levitation, solidification, heating and melting, and the determination of thermophysical properties of these alloys. Professor Wang Haipeng of NPU highlighted the importance of these discoveries, stating, \"Through our analysis of the returned samples, we have determined the key properties of refractory alloys at ultra-high temperatures, and our results include a series of new discoveries with important scientific value.\"
This groundbreaking research not only advances our understanding of materials science in space but also paves the way for future innovations in various high-temperature applications on Earth and beyond.
Reference(s):
Chinese scientists report progress in research aboard space station
cgtn.com