Lightweight, inexpensive, corrosion inhibiting integral and/or multi-component ElectroMagnetic Interference (EMI) and environmental seals for Advanced

This Phase II proposal to develop a "Lightweight, Inexpensive, Corrosion Inhibiting, Integral and/or Multicomponent Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) and Environmental Seals for the Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV)" is focused on two important activities. The first is the optimization of the seal material formulation such that it meets all of the Marine's performance and service life requirements. The second activity is to facilitate the commercial manufacture of the seals required to support the EFV production schedule. During Phase I, METSS demonstrated the feasibility of producing an elastomeric seal that meets the electrical and environmental performance requirements for EFV EMI seals, while preventing corrosion of the underlying aluminum substrate materials. The final selection of materials for the seal compound optimized under the Phase II program will depend on the seal design and fabrication methods required to produce the required seals for EFV integration. METSS will work closely with the Marines and General Dynamics to make sure the EMI seal materials developed under the SBIR are compatible with the required seal design(s) and the processing methods needed to facilitate part production for vehicle integration. The Phase II prototype efforts will also support interim sub-system an system level testing and evaluation. The final outcome of the Phase II program will be a source of EMI seals for the EFV that the Marines can reliably use to support the mission profile of this vehicle.