Rapidly Emplaced Devices to Attach Sensors/Demolitions to Structures

Explosive breaching is frequently the fastest and most combat-effective method to gain access to compounds, buildings, and rooms. Current explosive and sensor attachment methods are a logistical burden, difficult to use, messy, slow, unreliable, and may require fixtures to work. Improved methods are needed to attach demolition items and sensors to wet, fouled, or underwater surfaces. Texas Research Institute Austin (TRI/Austin) proposes the use of a revolutionary new class of adhesives that are extraordinarily insensitive to water and offer extremely rapid cure and excellent bond strength, even at low temperatures. These materials can be hand applied using a simple, lightweight, disposable coaxial syringe. The proposed fast cure (< 15 seconds) adhesive will easily be able to hold a weight of several pounds, and should have a two-year shelf life. Although adhesives have been used for this application in the past, none of those products has the speed and robust cohesive properties of the proposed materials. A comprehensive test program will be conducted to prepare the formulation and packaging system for Army field use. Tests will include adhesion to plastic explosive simulants, mild steel, and interior and exterior building walls and ceilings, including unprepared and underwater surfaces.