Carbon Fiber Heat Exchanger for Gas Quench of Microgravity Samples

Current and future microgravity studies in space based material science research call for rapid quenching of samples to permit microscopic examination of crystal structure, composition and growth dynamics. The conventional quench method, water spray, presents re-supply and consumables (weight, volume), safety, and recovery issues (water cannot be dumped on certain missions); therefore new techniques are sought.

This work investigates a quench concept in which a gas quenchant is used in a small scale pin fin heat exchanger consisting of thermally conductive carbon fibers mounted on the sample cartridge and mounted normal to the surface. Analysis is presented for conditions including those relevant for microgravity crystal growth, where this type of heat exchanger is a viable candidate.