Possible applications of space processing

Abstract

Numerous applications take advantage of low gravity. These range from research, such as study of basic properties of materials or developing a better understanding of various processes and how they might be controlled, to actual production of unique materials, either in very limited quantities for research purposes to serve as paradigms for determining the limiting results of processes in which gravity effects are removed, or in large quantities, to fill certain high technology needs that cannot be met by other means. Examples of these are given in the following topics discussed: (1) crystal growth; (2) metals, alloys and composite materials (metallurgy); (3) glass and ceramics (containerless processing); (4) fluid and chemical processes; and (5) processing of biological materials.