Lightweight MCMC Composite Armor Body Panels for Commercial Vehicles(1000-530)

Triton Systems Inc. proposes to further develop lightweight, high performance armor, demonstrated in the Phase I, using metal-ceramic-matrix-composite (MCMC) materials technology for the protection of light utility vehicles. The developments proposed include: a) improved reinforcement preforms to provide optimal through thickness density gradients and integrity, b) advanced hybrid infiltration/deposition processing to optimize the ceramic matrix density on the hardface and subsurface, c) lower cost MMC infiltration processes to enable cost effective casting and eliminate reliance on expensive fibers, and d) develop in-service repair procedures restoring a significant fraction of skin panel protection after damage. These architecture and processing improvements will be verified through fabrication of a series of increasingly complex pre-prototype and prototype (possibly sub-scale) vehicle panel components. The test articles will be subject to both structural and ballistic impact loading to verify performance predictions and validate the design concept. Final test articles will be selected based upon joint assessment of most appropriate utility vehicle applications and threat levels. The TACOM technical monitor as well as representatives of Triton's development associates (GDLS and O'Gara-Hess & Eisenhardt) will assist in determining the most appropriate initial application of Triton's lightweight MCMC armor technology.