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SBIR Phase I: Improved Manufacturing Methodology for Aluminum Ash Metal Matrix…

Award Information

Agency:
National Science Foundation 		Branch:
N/A 		Award ID:
88264 		Program Year/Program:
2008 / SBIR
Agency Tracking Number:
0740339 		Solicitation Year:
N/A 		Solicitation Topic Code:
N/A 		Solicitation Number:
N/A
Small Business Information
NuForm Materials, LLC
939 Luke Road Sadieville, KY -
View profile »
Woman-Owned: No
Minority-Owned: No
HUBZone-Owned: No
 
Phase 1
Fiscal Year: 2008
Title: SBIR Phase I: Improved Manufacturing Methodology for Aluminum Ash Metal Matrix Composite Materials
Agency: NSF
Contract: 0740339
Award Amount: $99,144.00
 

Abstract:

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will utilize highly processed fly ash in combination with the stir-casting technology to advance the manufacturing of coal ash-aluminum metal matrix composites (MMC). Fly ash, a ceramic glass sphere is produced when coal is burned, will be classified into a product with a narrow size range and little to no fine material (i.e. ash <5 micron in diameter) using a novel classification system. The low surface area of the classified ash particles will facilitate dispersion within the aluminum matrix while simultaneously slowing associated reduction reactions. The proposed aluminum-fly ash MMC will exhibit superior stiffness, hardness, and thermal conductivity. Furthermore, the successful creation of a material with increased stiffness that can be machined with conventional tooling would represent a breakthrough. If successful, the proposed aluminum-fly ash MMC would make it an attractive alternative to ductile iron in automotive applications (brake rotors). This material also has the potential to compete with hyper eutectic aluminum alloys in applications such as pistons, engine blocks, and engine heads. Fly ash-aluminum MMC would make automobiles lighter, and positively impact fuel consumption and cost. Additionally, the production of these composites would be environmentally friendly.

Principal Investigator:

Brock Marrs
DPhil
8592570314
brock.marrs@nuformmaterials.com

Business Contact:

Brock Marrs
DPhil
8592570314
brock.marrs@nuformmaterials.com
Small Business Information at Submission:

NuForm Materials, LLC
939 Luke Road Sadieville, KY 40370

EIN/Tax ID: 260264886
DUNS: N/A
Number of Employees:
Woman-Owned: No
Minority-Owned: No
HUBZone-Owned: No