Conformal Infrared Window with Structural and Distributed Aperture Capability for Airborne Platforms

Technology Assessment and Transfer, Inc. of Millersville, MD proposes an innovative technique for creating a high strength, high toughness mid-wave infrared transparent material based on their highly successful spinel product. This material is being designed for use in the distributed aperture systems found on platforms such as the F-35 Lightning II. The proposed material will take advantage nano-scale strengthening mechanisms. BENEFIT: If successful, this material would be ground breaking not only in the fields of infrared optics but also ultralight transparent armor. This innovation would also lower the cost and improve the quality of consumer products such as tactile displays.