Polymer-Cased Ammunition for Small Arms and Cannon Ammunition

Mississippi Polymer Technologies Inc. (MPT) proposes to develop a new generation of polymeric lightweight ammunition for the use by the services. Previous efforts to develop polymer cased ammunition have failed primarily because of problems associatedwith choice of case materials. During Phase I, MPT will execute a thorough survey of the available polymers and processing techniques, followed by the development of a comprehensive and rational development plan for implementation during Phase II. DuringPhase I, in addition to its core material science expertise, MPT will utilize a first Finite Element Analysis (FEA) material model of the cartridge case, developed exclusively for MPT, as well as its exclusive access to its proprietary, revolutionaryParmaxr Self Reinforced Polymers. At the conclusion of Phase I effort, MPT will deliver, in addition to the comprehensive ammunition development plan, three (3) prototypes in specified materials for the Navy testing. MPT was incorporated in January,2000, its first employees started in June, 2000, and MPT moved into its R&D/Pilot Plant facilities in March, 2002. Since that time MPT has executed projects for the Air Force (high performance structural foams), the Army (lightweight ammunition), the NSF(rapid prototyping), and the Navy (lightweight scuttles and hatches for shipboard use). MPT has received two (2) Phase I SBIR contracts, but no Phase II contracts. Accordingly, there has been little basis for commercializing the results of previous SBIRawards.Nonetheless, MPT is making good progress in commercializing its Parmaxr Self-Reinforced Polymer technology. As one result of its R&D, MPT already has entered into a licensing deal regarding the use of Parmaxr SRPs for coating applications, a deal thatincluded substantial up-front payments to MPT. MPT has grown to twenty-five (25) employees, developed a full pilot plant for Parmaxr SRP resins, and is engaged in advanced process development in preparation for full-scale production of Parmaxr SRP resinsfor commercial sales.Success in the proposed effort will be instrumental in creating commercialization opportunities for Parmaxr SRP resins. With the anticipated availability of sufficient Parmaxr SRP resin production capacity, MPT will be well poised to provide the materialsneeded for a wide range of commercial, value-added, Parmaxr SRP applications, including as proposed herein.