Nanomaterials in space: technology innovation and economic trends

Nanomaterials and nanostructures have a broad impact on space missions and programs (e.g., launchers, planetary science, and exploration). Their main benefits are related to reduced vehicle mass improved functionality and durability of space systems and increased propulsion performance. For these reasons, in this paper, we would like to explore the recent evolutions of nanomaterials and nanostructures for space systems, with a focus on patents and market trends related to lightweight structures, damage-tolerant nanoscale systems, nanocoatings and adhesives, nanomaterials, and structures for thermal protection and control. Our analysis examines patent information from a database containing more than 54 M worldwide patent families and combines the data retrieved with market indicators. Such evaluation is useful to assess the technological trends and evaluate their current stage of maturity, within the overall Technology Life Cycle. Using specific sectoral keywords, our study takes into consideration about 3000 patent data on nanostructures, materials, and processes for space applications evaluating, among others, patents trends (2010–2019), International Patent Classifications, country distribution, top assignees, legal state, and forward and backward citations. As a result, we can assess which International Patent Classification is more common and which geographical area is more active. In the area under investigation, we identified that explosives and similar materials (C06B) are widely protected as well as heterocyclic compounds (C07D) and spacecraft and its related equipment (B64G). For what the geographical distribution is concerned, while China and United States confirm their predominance, it is worthwhile noticing that Canada, one of the ESA Member States, is highly active, as well. Our focus on the European patenting activity shows that Great Britain, Germany, and France are the most active countries. From the analysis of the other indicators (e.g., citations, assignees, etc.), we can assess which type of nanomaterial and nanostructure for space applications is growing more rapidly. Furthermore, patent indicators, integrated with market information, provide a clear evaluation of the related technology trends and readiness level. In conclusion, patent metrics provide a valuable asset to measure innovation performance. These data can also be used to monitor activities of worldwide players, create a performance evaluation system in R&D entities, and foresee specific technological trends. Thanks to this type of analysis, we can capture differences in innovation performances. The resulting indicators support strategic roadmapping and contribute to mapping knowledge and competences worldwide. In addition, they provide information on technological gaps and possible opportunities, measuring the results of space valorisation and technology transfer.