Conductive Thin Polymer Films with Graphitic Nanomaterials

In the Phase I effort, Applied Sciences, Inc. demonstrated the ability to use high-quality graphitic nanomaterials and scalable processing methods to produce highly uniform, durable, flexible, and isotropic conductive thin films which exhibit higher levels of electrical resistivity uniformity at lower thicknesses than commercially available materials. These materials also met or exceeded the solvent resistance and bend testing requirements. To capitalize on these findings, a development effort is proposed to enable evaluation of quality and cost for automated production based on the synthesis methods and new raw materials proven in the Phase I effort. The goal of the Phase II effort will be to scale-up the production process to pilot-scale, to develop process and product quality assurance procedures and method, and to qualify the material for use in Defense Systems through extensive evaluation and testing by DOD prime contractors. Scaling the production process developed by ASI to generate larger area films is readily achievable through minor modifications to appropriately-sized, commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) equipment. The ability to use COTS will enable the project team to begin delivering film product within 18 months.