Scalable, Lightweight Nanocomposite Armor

GVD Corporation (GVD) proposes to develop conformal coatings for carbon nanotubes (CNTs), facilitating scalable manufacturing of lightweight vehicle armor. GVD’s solvent-free coatings afford improved CNT dispersion in various matrices, resulting in better CNT distribution throughout the armor nanocomposite. Combat vehicles carry more than 10 tons of armor, increasing vehicle wear and tear (and associated maintenance costs) and reducing vehicle mobility. GVD’s proposed nanocomposite approach offers significant armor weight reduction while maintaining armor performance. In Phase I, GVD will develop and screen a range of conformal coatings for carbon nanotubes. The most promising candidates will then be selected for nanocomposite fabrication and testing. GVD’s nanotube coating approach will then be optimized and scaled up in Phase II for prototyping and more rigorous testing.