Processing Methodology for Reactives Enhanced Munitions

Advanced Ceramics Research, Inc. (ACR) proposes to develop novel intermetallic composite systems for high strength materials capable of releasing energy on demand. This effort will combine our Fibrous Monolith (FM) processing expertise and new approaches in intermetallic design to develop a new generation of cost-efficient, high strength and reactive composites. The proposed material system will have a cellular structure, consisting of a primary phase of structural materials, interspersed with a continuous secondary phase of highly reactive material. The existence of two different materials will allow for tailoring and modification of mechanical properties of the composite by varying the composition and orientation of the two phases, while the two phases will allow an increase in reactivity to the composite. During this program, ACR will demonstrate versatility of the FM process in fabricating high strength and reactive composites that will satisfy Air Force's performance needs while reducing total cost of ownership by increasing performance of the component. ACR is currently involved with Raytheon Missile Systems (Tucson, AZ) as a material supplier. It is expected that Raytheon will show a high level of interest in components developed under this reactives enhanced munitions program.