Structural High Power Microwave, Nuclear and Electromagnetic Pulse Protection of Organic Matrix Composite and Ceramic Materials for Munitions

During the Phase I SBIR, Vector ElectroMagnetics, LLC developed and demonstrated a Multi-Functional Advanced Composite Material System whereby material elements to shield thermal blast, Nuclear EMP, Nuclear Particle and HPM effects are inherently part of the structural composite material system. The Material System developed, demonstrated high structural load carrying capacity and a significant reduction in required volume and weight when compared to currently deployed solutions. Upon further development in Phase II program, Vector intends to accomplish the following; (1) Develop/Establish a viable commercial source for the required raw materials that make up the Multi-Functional Structural Shielding Material System, (2) Fully Develop and Demonstrate material system compatibility with Structural Composite Requirements and Composite Manufacturing Processes (Filament Winding, Fiber Placements, Hand Lay-up, etc.), (3) Demonstrate Significant Improvement in Performance and Reduction in Weight and Volume over current parasitic system design philosophies through the development of an Optimized Program Specific Shielding material system design, (4) Demonstrate that the Material System and Manufacturing Processes are scalable, affordable, maintainable and sustainable through the fabrication of a full scale section of a relevant structural composite component, (5) Demonstrate Performance through Testing of the Prototypes.