Superior and Affordable Infrared Windows for High-Speed Missiles

"The program will demonstrate the scientific, technical and commercial merit of our innovative infrared window material and cost-effective production process. The materials will have IR transmission characteristics close to that of current monolithicsapphire and ALON window materials. Additionally, our self-reinforced single crystal oxide material will provide a substantial improvement in thermal shock resistance and fracture toughness over sapphire and ALON. Also, our process can produce large andcontoured windows to net shape. Our patented process involves short run times, can produce multiple components in one run, and can be automated. The resulting windows will cost substantially less than sapphire or ALON windows. Our team includes a majormissile producer who will conduct optical testing for comparison to state-of-the-art IR window materials.The Phase I program will involve fabrication of IR window specimens, characterization (key optical, mechanical and thermal properties), preliminary performance and cost analyses, and formation of a strong team to start the commercialization process forthis technology in Phase II. (P-020426) The thermal shock and temperature resistance of our material will enable IR windows and domes for hypersonic missiles for which a solution is currently not available. Our technology will also provide lower cost IR windows than sapphire or ALON for manycurrent and future aircraft, missiles, ground vehicles and ships. Commercial applications will be found in sensor windows for industrial systems to monitor functions such as fuel combustion, pollutant generation and corrosion onset."