Fabrication of Amorphous Metals in Space (FAMIS)

Science Objectives

Fabrication of Amorphous Metals in Space (MSL SCA-FAMIS) studies the microstructure of composites of bulk metallic glass (BMG) and tungsten spheres processed in microgravity. BMGs, also known as amorphous metals, have excellent mechanical properties such as wear resistance. Forming composites with tungsten and BMGs could create a new class of high-performance alloys and coatings, but the vast density difference between the two makes this challenging in Earth’s gravity. Results could support development of new-generation elements for gears and coatings for applications in space and on Earth.

Status

Delivery to the International Space Station via the SpaceX-26 Commercial Resupply Service mission.

Image shows the circular side of a metallic Sample Cartridge Assembly (SCA). Twelve bolts line the circumference of the device

Image shows an overhead view of the SCA. Attached to the circular side is a long metallic enclosed tube.

The Fabrication of Amorphous Metals in Space (FAMIS) investigation samples are contained in Sample Cartridge Assemblies (SCAs), pictured here, and are fully processed in the Low Gradient Furnace (LGF) installed in the Materials Science Laboratory (MSL) inside the Materials Science Research Rack (MSRR). Once the FAMIS SCAs are aboard ISS, they are installed in the LGF by the crew, one by one, and processed at 1200°C. Investigation and facility data (e.g., temperature, pressure, power, etc.) are downlinked and monitored on the ground by the operations and experiment teams in real-time. After return to Earth, the SCAs will be disassembled, and the investigations samples will be analyzed by the Investigators.

Experiment Description

The goal of the Fabrication of Amorphous Metals in Space (MSL SCA-FAMIS) investigation is to perform semi-solid holds of two glass-forming alloys based in Zirconium-Niobium-Copper-Nickel-Aluminum (ZrNbCuNiAl) and Copper-Zirconium-Aluminum-Cobalt (CuZrAlCo) reinforced with tungsten spheres. The main scientific objective is to study the diffusion and reprecipitation of tungsten-based phases in the glass-forming alloys in the presence and absence of gravity-driven sedimentation. The samples are processed in the Low Gradient Furnace installed in the Materials Science Laboratory (MSL) inside the Materials Science Research Rack (MSRR) on the International Space Station (ISS).

Space Applications

This investigation could lead to development of new classes of metal alloys for gears, bearings, wear-resistant coatings, and other elements for spacecraft and robots, supporting future space exploration missions.