Enhanced Capillary Flow Modulation in Microgravity Heat Pipes via Dynamic Wick Structure Optimization and Integrated Fluid Property Tuning

**Abstract:** This research investigates a novel methodology for enhancing the performance of microgravity heat pipes, primarily focusing on circumventing limitations imposed by reduced gravitational capillary action. We propose a dynamic wick structure, controlled by micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS), coupled with real-time fluid property tuning via microfluidic injection of dopants. This integrated approach, governed by an adaptive feedback loop, dramatically increases the heat transfer coefficient and operational temperature range compared to traditional static wick designs. The system's commercial viability lies in enabling significantly more efficient spacecraft thermal management and extending the operational lifetimes of critical electronic components in harsh space environments, offering a 30-40% improvement over existing solutions within a 5-year timeframe.