Boron Nanotubes for Ultra High Strength Light Weight Composites

Boron Nanotubes (BNTs) have been predicted to have characteristics that are distinctively different than those of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), particularly with respect to physical and chemical properties. However, the development of BNTs is still in its infancy due to the lack of research performed in synthesizing BNTs. We propose to demonstrate the feasibility of synthesizing BNTs using a novel two-step process. The key innovation proposed here is to utilize a precursor structure of boron that will transform readily to BNTs. Further, an aspect of the proposed technology will allow long-term storage of BNTs by preventing any oxidation due to exposure to ambient atmosphere. In Phase I, phase pure and high purity BNTs will be synthesized and characterized for structural and chemical purity, which will result in the development of a protocol for synthesizing BNTs under optimized conditions. Additionally, the dispersabilty of BNTs, which is one of the critical parameters that determines the commercialization potential of BNTs, will be studied. Commercialization and scale-up plans will be developed during Phase I, and implemented in Phase II. A pilot scale system for the synthesis of BNTs will be delivered to the ARMY at the end of Phase II.