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New Flexible FR Polyurethane Foams for Energy Absorption Applications

Award Information
Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Branch: N/A
Contract: NNX13CK18C
Agency Tracking Number: 110158
Amount: $872,560.00
Phase: Phase II
Program: STTR
Solicitation Topic Code: T7.03
Solicitation Number: N/A
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2011
Award Year: 2013
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2013-07-23
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2016-10-25
Small Business Information
2283 Hamlet Drive
Melbourne, FL 32934-7609
United States
DUNS: 110494650
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 MATTHEW JENSEN
 Principal Investigator
 (321) 674-7103
 mjensen@fit.edu
Business Contact
 Gordon Nelson
Title: Business Official
Phone: (321) 255-1163
Email: nelson@fit.edu
Research Institution
 Florida Institute of Technology
 NOT Available
 
150 W. University Blvd.
Melbourne, FL 32901-6975
United States

 () -
 Domestic Nonprofit Research Organization
Abstract

Project involves development of new flexible FR polyurethane (PU)insulation foams through a non-toxic environmentally friendly composite approach. Foams have bound-in polymeric phosphonate FRs, with added synergists and smoke suppressants. Such foams will not leach FR. Foams have fine cell structure and excellent flexible foam properties.

Cone performance of the identified foam family (368 peak rate of heat release versus 1670 control - 78% reduction in PHRR) clearly surpasses that of standard commercial flexible PU foams: 502 to 913 for CAL 133 compliant foams, 953 for BS5852 compliant foam, and 1154 for CAL 117 compliant PU foam. Project foams easily comply with NASA 6001 open flame testing. Foams with under 3.0 pcf are available. Procedures for incorporation of significant Aerogel concentrations (5 pbw to 15 pbw), useful for cryogenic and low temperature insulation, have been identified and tested. Results are based on over 200 foams made in small scale and 100 foams prepared as 5L molded foams.

Phase II of Project involves scale-up of foams in the foam family, preparation of intermediate scale samples capable of more detailed application testing, performing such testing (Eg. cryogenic insulation testing), and sampling of foams to potential customers identified by the project expert Commercialization Panel. In working with foam vendors on intermediate scale sample preparation, potential commercial partners will be identified and assessed. Large scale runs are also planned. Potential commercial partners will have the opportunity to gain experience with the foams in intermediate scale sample preparation. Selected partners will have the opportunity to share their experience with the Commercialization Panel to focus on highest value applications and needed performance. Such interaction will lead to partnering, licensing and joint venture discussions.

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

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