Boron Nitride Nanotube Composites for Pliable Thermal Interface Material

For this research program, Mainstream will develop a nanocomposite thermal interface material (TIM) combining the benefits of boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) and cellulose nanofiber (CNF) for use with Navy-relevant power conversion components. The overall goal of the SBIR program is to develop a usable product with the following characteristics: robust to vibration and abrasion, non-permanent bonding, high dielectric strength, and high thermal conductance. Our approach will yield a conformable TIM with a thermal conductivity >20 W/m2-K and dielectric constant 1 mm) without degradation of performance. For the Phase I Base effort, we will produce, characterize, and demonstrate BNNT/CNF TIMs with thermal footprints as large as 8 cm2. The Phase II will focus of refinement of production, scalability, and evaluation using military standard test procedures as well as development of a thermal paste based upon the composition identified during the Phase I effort.