Low Cost, Domestically Sourced SiC Ceramic Fibers

In this Air Force Phase I SBIR proposal, MATECH/GSM proposes to develop a manufacturing process for the production of low-cost stoichiometric SiC fibers for use in advanced missile components. The objectives of this proposal are to develop a manufacturing base for low cost, high volume, entirely domestically sourced stoichiometric SiC ceramic fibers—much needed by the defense community. This AF SBIR Phase I program is supported by key missile system contractor Pratt & Whitney. This program is also supported by Hitco Carbon Composites, who manufactures rocket motor nozzles, re-entry ablatives, and high temperature structural insulators for missile systems. In addition, this program will benefit from the direct participation (as a sub-contractor) of KiON Defense Technologies (KDT), a large-scale domestic manufacturer of polysilazane preceramic polymers. KDT is already MATECH/GSM’s domestic OEM manufacturer of custom polysilazanes for SiNC ceramic fiber. COI Ceramics, the U. S. Distributor for NCK’s Nicalon family of SiC fibers and manufacturer of Sylramic, will participate in a Phase II program, if awarded.