AQUASHIELD: Multifunctional Fluid-Filled Cellular Composites for Space Radiation Protection – Comprehensive Experimental, Computational, and Developmental Investigations

This paper presents comprehensive research on bio-inspired fluid-filled cellular composites (FFCC) for space radiation protection, thermal management, and micrometeoroid/orbital debris (MMOD) defense. The AQUASHIELD system integrates water storage, radiation shielding, impact protection, and thermal regulation into a single multifunctional structure, addressing NASA's critical needs for lunar and deep space missions. Three complementary investigation approaches are synthesized: (1) experimental validation through gamma radiation exposure testing at Sandia National Laboratories using Cobalt-60 sources at doses from 5 Gy to 500 Gy, (2) computational modeling using SRIM (Stopping and Range of Ions in Matter) and SPENVIS/MULASSIS for radiation transport analysis in Medium Earth Orbit and interplanetary environments, and (3) systems development advancing zero-gravity fluid transport, self-healing mechanisms, and integrated protection capabilities. Key innovations include a novel homogenization method for modeling heterogeneous composite layers, demonstrating 14-26% lower Total Ionizing Dose than polyethylene in Medium Earth Orbit and 56% lower than aluminum in interplanetary space. Experimental results show the Tyvek/Kevlar/Poron/Boron Nitride/Kevlar configuration maintains structural integrity with 90% rear face strength preservation at 500 Gy exposure (118× Mars mission dose). The system achieves 40% mass reduction compared to separate subsystems, manyfold mechanical strength increase upon impact, and passive thermal management maintaining gradients within 30°F. The convergence of experimental, computational, and developmental approaches will establish AQUASHIELD’s transformative characteristics for space habitats, advancing from Technology Readiness Level 3 to TRL 6 or more.