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Low Density, Rugged, Shape Memory-Metal Rubber™ Morph-on-Demand Towed Array Hose

Award Information
Agency: Department of Defense
Branch: Navy
Contract: N65538-09-M-0112
Agency Tracking Number: N091-058-0455
Amount: $100,000.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: N091-058
Solicitation Number: 2009.1
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2009
Award Year: 2009
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2009-07-23
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2010-08-23
Small Business Information
P.O. Box 618
Christiansburg, VA 24068
United States
DUNS: 008963758
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 J.H. Lalli
 VP of Business Developmen
 (540) 953-1785
 jlalli@nanosonic.com
Business Contact
 Lisa Lawson
Title: VP of Business Developmen
Phone: (540) 953-1785
Email: llawson@nanosonic.com
Research Institution
N/A
Abstract

NanoSonic specializes in the production of multifunctional, nanostructured morphing airfoils and hydrofoils via Shape Memory-Metal Rubber™ (SM-MR). SM-MR™ would be exploited as a smart towed array hose that can both sense and change its shape under sea-water to reduce damaging strum-induced vibration and optimize hydrophone performance. Our unique layer-by-layer self-assembly processing method yields ultra-lightweight (< 0.99g/cc), yet thick rugged and compliant nanocomposites enabling neutral buoyancy due to the extremely low volume fractions of metal nanoparticles required for conductivity. The electrically conductive component of SM-MR™ allows for 1) in-situ sensing of longitudinal flow at greater than 4 degrees and 2) wireless induction pathway stimulating temporary shape change to a more hydrodynamic cross-section to suppress crosswise flow and turn-induced strum and 3) repeatedly return to a circular cross-section upon turn completion. While the specific chemical structure of SM-MR™ is proprietary, the hybrid polyurethane SMP is resistant to Exxon Isopar L and offers similar properties (isothermal mechanical -40ºC to 50ºC, Shore A80, > 100% elongation) to BF Goodrich 58881. The TRL of the morph-on-demand SM-MR™ submarine towed array hose would be increased to TRL6 during Phase I and to TRL 9 when demonstrated at Carderock housing a TB-29A acoustic module in Phase III.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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