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Modified Ionic Liquid-Based High-Performance Lubricants for Robotic Operations

Award Information
Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Branch: N/A
Contract: NNX12CA66C
Agency Tracking Number: 104310
Amount: $749,999.00
Phase: Phase II
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: X7.01
Solicitation Number: N/A
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2010
Award Year: 2012
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2012-04-30
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2014-10-29
Small Business Information
2531 West 237th Street Suite 127
Torrance, CA 90505-5245
United States
DUNS: 114060861
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: Yes
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 David Hess
 Principal Investigator
 (310) 530-2011
 david.hess-1@innosense.us
Business Contact
 Kisholoy Goswami
Title: President
Phone: (310) 530-2011
Email: kisholoy.goswami@innosense.us
Research Institution
 Stub
Abstract

NASA needs an advanced lubrication solution for its future robotic systems and planetary surface assets. The required lubrication technology must offer low-temperature performance while minimizing wear in these robotic systems and reducing the maintenance needed to keep them running. In this Phase II project, InnoSense LLC (ISL) proposes to meet NASA's need by further-engineering of its IonoGlide?liquid-based lubricants and validating its performance through testing by third party. IonoGlide lubricants offer low-temperature performance with limited off-gassing and high decomposition temperatures. ISL's approach is to introduce proprietary additives to the ionic liquid matrix to impart thermal stability and enhance lubricity. This depresses the apparent freezing point while maintaining high decomposition temperatures. Through electrostatic interactions, the proprietary additive and ionic liquid form an order. With near metallic surfaces, this quasi-ordering contribute to improved lubricity. Phase I testing shows that ISL's lubricant outperforms top commercially available lubricants. ISL will work with a major NASA contractor to test lubrication efficiency under simulated field conditions. IonoGlide lubricants are envisioned for use primarily in metallic ball-bearing conditions at low pressures.

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

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