SBIR/STTR Research Award

MEDAL: Novel nanoengineered material layer and coating that provides tensile strength above titanium-carbide while improving EM, DEW, and wear resistance.

Award identifier 6f47417e35139535d16e65da78749aa8a3a082a9e65d24bb8942c09403478f89Awarding agency Department of Defense · Air Force

Award amount

$72,938

Program and phase

SBIR · Phase I

Award year

2024

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Award details

Awarding agency
Department of Defense
Branch
Air Force
Recipient company
Cerebral Energy, LLC
Proposal award date
2024-05-10
Contract end date
2024-08-19
UEI
L481TXTT6821
Solicitation number
X24.5
Topic code
AFX245-PCSO2

Research abstract

The US Space Force (USSF) operates in an environment where traditional defense mechanisms face unique challenges, including extreme temperatures, micrometeoroid impacts, and potential threats from anti-satellite (ASAT) weapons. The Multi-threat Engineered Diamond Armor Layer (MEDAL) represents a breakthrough in protective material science, offering a multi-faceted solution tailored to the USSF's operational needs. MEDAL is a nanoengineered hybrid material that combines the unparalleled strength and flexibility of multi-layer graphene with the hardness and resilience of diamond. This innovative armor layer is designed to be spray-applied, allowing for seamless integration with existing structures and platforms. Its versatility extends to transparency, enabling MEDAL to protect without compromising optical capabilities, a critical feature for space-based observation and surveillance equipment. The unique composition of MEDAL provides exceptional protection against a spectrum of threats. Its high tensile strength and energy dispersion qualities make it an ideal shield against kinetic impacts, such as space debris and micrometeoroids, which pose a constant threat to space assets. The thermal dispersion effects inherent to MEDAL's design also offer protection against the thermal variances of space, maintaining the integrity of USSF assets in the face of extreme temperature fluctuations. Furthermore, MEDAL's reduced electromagnetic susceptibility enhances the survivability of space assets against emerging ASAT technologies, including directed energy weapons. By mitigating the risk of EMP, DEW and kinetic damage, MEDAL supports the continued functionality and communication capabilities of critical space-based systems. The development of MEDAL aligns with the USSF's strategic goals of asset longevity, mission success, and technological superiority. Its application promises to revolutionize the protective measures employed by the USSF, offering a cost-effective, lightweight, and durable solution that addresses the multifaceted nature of space threats. The commercialization of MEDAL also opens avenues for collaboration and innovation, fostering advancements that could benefit broader aerospace applications. An investment in MEDAL stands as a testament to the commitment of the USSF to safeguard its personnel and assets with cutting-edge technology. Its development not only represents a significant leap forward in material engineering but also underscores the USSF's dedication to maintaining dominance in the ever-evolving domain of space.

Technology keywords

Not reported

Other awards by this recipient

Verified by the same UEI. These are other public SBIR/STTR award pages, not a merged company record.

Awards with the same topic code

Verified by an exact topic code match. This is not a text-similarity match.

Research funding history

6 SBIR/STTR records share this UEI (2024–2025). Reported award amounts total $2,400,260. Reported amounts are not federal obligations.

Phases: Phase I, Phase II

Agencies: Department of Defense

Agency intelligence

Department of Defense

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