Cryobiology is opening new frontiers in the field of space research. It has created new opportunities such as the development of advanced cryopreservation technologies for biobanks, and is a fundamental support for the design of long-duration missions.

The important developments in cryogenic engineering in recent years have opened doors that were previously closed in many industries, and aerospace is no exception. In this sense, its cutting-edge application in propulsion systems for space satellites stands out as one of the most promising opportunities in the present and the future.

Spacecraft propulsion relies on advanced cryogenic technology in many aspects. Such is the case of some techniques related to cryobiology, used to carry out simulations in which the effects of extreme cold on certain fundamental components, such as green solar panels, are analyzed. All of this with the aim of optimizing the technology capable of propelling a rocket.

Keep reading: Cryogenic tank for the aerospace sector: Cryospain facilitates new steps for liquid hydrogen

Major missions such as Artemis III have already employed an interim cryogenic propulsion system (ICPS) to send astronauts to the Moon on high-demand missions. In light of its growing importance in the aerospace industry, we look at the role of cryobiology in propulsion and other applications.

What is cryobiology?

Cryobiology is the branch of biology that studies the effects of extremely low temperatures on living beings and biological materials in general.

What are the applications of cryobiology?

When considered as a scientific field, cryobiology presents many applications in various industries today. This is the case of medicine and biological research, where controlled freezing and thawing techniques are used to preserve tissues, cells and organs at very low temperatures. The cryopreservation of embryos can be cited as a specific example of this.

In the context of the aerospace industry, the potential of cryobiology is being explored for preserving biological samples, but also food, biobanks and biodiversity. In addition, as explained below, spacecraft propulsion for satellites is experimenting with cryogenic techniques for the management of extreme temperatures in various applications.

Cryobiology applied to spacecraft propulsion

The role of cryobiology in propulsion system design

Cryogenics stand out as a fundamental element for the manipulation and storage of certain propellants, which require low technologies, such as hydrogen and liquid oxygen.

cryogenic engineering guide

Capable of increasing propulsion efficiency in space, they generate a large amount of energy when combined in the combustion chamber. In order to do so, they must be used in temperature ranges between -200º and -160ºC, which implies the involvement of cryogenic equipment and engineering.

In turn, cryobiology techniques are also facilitating the implementation of extreme temperature tests linked to propulsion systems.

These tests use cryobiological techniques (such as the application of liquid nitrogen and vacuum chambers), capable of simulating the conditions found in outer space. This way, these systems are tested in extreme cold conditions to ensure their operability in space, so that their potential changes in efficiency or structural resistance, among other parameters, are analyzed in a controlled environment.

Similarly, this type of testing is applied to cryogenic container control systems, which guarantees the safe storage and transportation of fuels.

As such, companies such as SpaceX have already focused on cryogenic testing for their spacecraft prototypes. These are of utmost importance, considering the lack of control in variables such as sudden changes in temperature or extreme pressures can compromise the safety of space launches. Thus, the company is known to have developed at least three dozen different tests, in which multiple prototypes, tanks and boosters have been put to the test.

Keep learning: Cryogenic liquid gases: differences and common uses of LNG, LIN, LOX, LAR and LC02

The result is design that is optimized for space equipment, developing technologies capable of resisting and reaching their maximum potential even in extreme environments.

Nitrogen application

The application of liquid nitrogen is an important technique within the field of cryobiology. This procedure involves using this element to reach extremely low temperatures, necessary for the extreme temperature tests just described.

Specialized climatic chambers are employed for this purpose, which allow for controlled testing in a laboratory environment that mimics conditions in space. Liquid nitrogen is particularly useful in this regard, as it allows precise control of temperatures within the test chamber, reaching -196 °C (-321 °F).

Electronic components and structural materials are subjected to the application of nitrogen to observe their reactions (resistance, durability, expansion, contraction, etc.).

Safety and reliability considerations for cryogenic propulsors

All of these developments and procedures must have safety and reliability as a priority, with the main goal of ensuring the success of the missions. Thus, some of the fundamental safety considerations include:

  • Design of safe cryogenic storage tanks, capable of withstanding the low temperatures and pressures associated with cryogenic propellants, and thus avoiding leaks.
  • Selection of compatible materials for the construction of tanks and pipes.
  • Total temperature control so that the propellants do not evaporate and lose efficiency.
  • Safety of personnel while operating with substances at cryogenic temperatures and establishment of emergency procedures.
  • Rigorous testing for any component within the cryogenic system.
  • Execution of maintenance protocols (including predictive initiatives) to detect and correct problems before they become critical failures.

Advantages of the application of cryobiology in space research

Increased efficiency for space missions 

The application of cryobiological technologies is making it possible to optimize propulsion processes. Rockets are being tested and designed to reach higher speeds and carry heavier loads with less fuel.

Greater reliability in extreme conditions 

These procedures also open the door to improved protection of electronic components, thanks to extreme temperature testing.

Cryogenic technologies also lay the foundation for developing safe operation of thrusters, minimizing the risk of leaks and explosions.

Fuel storage for satellites

Development of cryogenic storage technologies 

Advances in cryogenic storage technologies are behind cutting-edge developments in fields as diverse as medicine and biology, and the aerospace industry is no exception.

In recent years, cryogenic engineering has overcome significant technical challenges, opening up new possibilities for the storage and handling of materials at extremely low temperatures.

cryogenic tanks reference list

For instance, improvements in insulation materials have been made to prevent heat transfer issues. This, in turn, has enabled the design of advanced storage tanks that resist embrittlement at low temperatures, ultimately leading to greater durability and reliability.

Thus, missions such as Artemis and Lunar Gateway have benefited from advances in cutting-edge cryogenic storage, facilitating the use of cryogenic propellants in an increasingly efficient manner.

Challenges in cryogenic storage 

In the coming years, cryogenic storage will need to solve a series of technical and operational challenges to maximize the effectiveness and safety of space missions.

Areas such as the management of leaks or losses in propellants, evaporation processes, or pressure management are expected to experience significant improvements.

Keep learning: How to perform professional vacuum leak testing

In this regard, emerging technologies such as innovations in materials or boil-off recovery systems present promising advances that are already being investigated.

Thus, the development of advanced cryogenic storage will in many ways hold the key to advancing space exploration.

Safety and reliability considerations 

Cryogenic fuel storage must be supported by robust safety and reliability protocols.

This includes, first and foremost, proper storage tank design which incorporates resilient materials, advanced insulation systems and full structural integrity.

Tanks must equally be prepared for internal pressure control and include efficient cooling and refrigeration systems with built-in redundancies.

In turn, monitoring and control systems (for example, high-precision sensors or automation technologies) represent yet another essential element in order to guarantee safety and reliability.

At Cryospain, we put our expertise in cryogenic engineering at the service of the aerospace industry. As such, we have participated in a number of high-tech cryogenic projects such as the tests for SABRE technology (Synergistic Air-Breathing Rocket Engine), a revolutionary propulsion system based on liquid helium and hydrogen.

As active participants in this development, we provided advanced pipe-in-pipe systems capable of transporting fluids while maintaining their liquid state and minimizing evaporation.

A small step for Cryospain but a giant leap for the aerospace industry, which, supported by cutting-edge cryogenics, promises great achievements for the coming decades.

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