Exothermic Nano Composite for Self-Contained Ration Heater

RBC proposes to develop a self-activating, flameless heater based on the principal of encapsulated pyrophoric aluminum in order to achieve safe, controlled reaction kinetics. The novel system offers higher specific energy (cal g-1) than the current Mg-Fe heater, Valimet, a producer of specialty aluminum powder will partner with RBC in the effort. In the Phase I SBIR program, RBC proposes to develop and demonstrate a self-contained exothermic metallic fuel composite that can be integrated into packaging configurations to provide a FRH for use with the Meal, Ready-to-Eat ration. RBC will also carry out a Design Analysis of weight, cost, size, health hazards, safety, ruggedness, shelf life, environmental impact, and stability, and prepare a Preliminary Design Package for the prototype heater.