NEWS

Louisiana researchers are helping NASA reimagine how we build and maintain structures in space. Through a new research project, they aim to develop lighter, stronger, and more repairable materials that could one day be used to assemble spacecraft, lunar habitats, and space stations like building blocks. A new NASA grant will support a three-year collaboration among Louisiana State University, Louisiana Tech University, and Southern University. The goal is to create smarter ways to construct and fix large space structures without relying on bolts, screws, or glue.

The project, titled “Advancing Manufacturing of Sustainable Multi-Material Composite Structures for Space Applications Via Ultrasonic Welding,” will officially begin on October 1, 2025.

The research team is focused on developing a new generation of materials called vitrimers. These plastics are not only strong and lightweight but also self-healing and reusable. These characteristics are especially valuable in space, where equipment is expensive to launch and nearly impossible to replace. The team will use ultrasonic welding, a fast and efficient joining technique, to assemble these materials into large, multi-functional space structures that can be repaired or reconfigured on-site.

Dr. Andrew Peters, associate professor of chemical engineering at Louisiana Tech and principal investigator on the project, shared the significance of the award. “This funding gives undergraduates a chance to work on research that supports NASA’s goals. If NASA uses our work, we become part of something much bigger and contribute to the future of space exploration.”

Dr. Collin Wick, dean of the College of Engineering and Science at Louisiana Tech, serves as a senior investigator on the project. “This project is all about creating smarter and more sustainable materials for space,” said Wick. “We are developing a fast, lightweight way to assemble structures in orbit or on the Moon using ultrasonic welding. This approach avoids bulky adhesives or mechanical fasteners and could make space construction faster, more affordable, and easier to repair.”

The grant is administered by the Louisiana Board of Regents with LSU as the primary awardee.  Louisiana Tech University will receive $363,300 in support through a subaward to carry out a significant portion of the work.

NASA’s Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research initiative supports research that advances NASA’s mission while strengthening the scientific capacity and economic development of participating states. This project brings together a unique Louisiana-based team to address NASA’s need for lightweight, reconfigurable space structures that can adapt to future challenges in deep space missions.

The project will give undergraduate and graduate students at all three universities hands-on research experience with faculty and NASA collaborators, preparing them for careers in space and advanced manufacturing. While focused on space travel, the research offers immediate benefits by fueling collaboration, supporting local innovation, and positioning Louisiana as a space industry leader.