Ballistic Resistant, Environmentally Robust Hybrid Polyorganosiloxane Nanocomposites as Optically Transparent Protective Coatings for Polycarbonate Pr

During Phase I of NanoSonic’s SBIR program, researchers synthesized and characterized over 200 polyorganosiloxane nanocomposite coatings and statistically down-selected optimized materials with exceptional optical clarity, ballistic impact durability, abrasion resistance and HVLP spray depositability. Through these efforts, thin optically transparent coatings with ballistic resistance to projectiles traveling at 1200 ft/s and abrasion resistance to high velocity sand substantially more aggressive than Middle East combat environments have been developed for near term integration within polycarbonate protective equipment structures. Of particular interest, NanoSonic’s pioneering coatings have demonstrated polycarbonate adhesion on the order of aerospace epoxies and hydrophobic self-cleaning properties. The principal objectives of the Phase II SBIR program are to demonstrate nanocomposite coated combat lenses achieve NIJ Type IIIA standards while meeting ANSI Z80.3 optical requirements; maintain robust abrasion resistance against high velocity sand and preserve their desirable mechanical properties within extreme combat deployment environments. Additionally, NanoSonic will optimize the manufacturing, processing and deposition metrics of down-selected nanocomposites for rapid insertion within current lens production processes. NanoSonic has discussed Phase I accomplishments with Wiley X™, Kroop’s Goggles, Vision Systems International, Essilor and Lockheed Martin and received strong support for Phase II technical guidance and commercialization interest onto existing polycarbonate lens systems.