Advanced Ferroelectric Polymers for High Energy Density Capacitors

To shrink the size and weight of pulsed power systems used by various military systems, the Air Force seeks to increase the energy density of their capacitors. Polymers/ceramics nanocomposites are promising materials for such capacitors. They combine the high dielectric constant of the ceramic and the high breakdown strength and processability of polymers. In collaboration with the University of Connecticut, Lynntech will develop ferroelectric polymers by mixing ferroelectric materials into commonly used capacitor polymers. Density Functional Theory (DFT) method will be used to design materials and complemented with materials synthesis that will provide the experimental evidence of feasibility. BENEFIT: The significant market opportunities arise from the dual-use applications for (i) military applications and (ii) private sector. The commercial market opportunity can provide with a cost-competitive device for high power microwave systems, manned and unmanned aircraft, directed energy weapons, insulation for electric machines, aircraft ignition systems, power conditioning, defibrillators, medical x-ray equipment, particle accelerators, advanced radar systems, and utility distribution substations and machining equipment and other applications. .