Method of Micro-Encapsulation of Nanometric Reactive Particle Mixtures with Explosive Cores

Using ink-jet printing technology, MicroFab Technologies can create uni-modal, multi-micron size mi-crospheres containing reactive nano-particles. This ability will enable the uniform incorporation of nano-powders in explosive casting mixes. Phase I demonstrated the feasibility of producing uniform micro-spheres loaded with nano-powders. Phase II will capitalize on this success by creating a system for large volume production of microspheres containing energetic materials and nano-particles. To accomplish this, we will design and fabricate large-scale array printheads integrated with system control, maintenance, and sphere recovery subsystems. We will generate a modular system design in order to scale to any produc-tion rate required. Fluid development will focus on optimization for specific microsphere characteristics. Completion of Phase II objectives will yield a modular automated system and processes ready for Phase III commercialization. The system will capable of creating large volumes of explosive microspheres ready for testing. This technology and methods are anticipated to find employment among military contractors and energetic materials manufacturers.