LUNA INNOVATIONS INCORPORATED — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: A14-024

Description

Multi-spectral camouflage and concealment coatings on military tactical vehicles significantly reduce detection by enemy combatants. Black tires and wheels, however, are in direct contrast to the vehicle and surroundings and constitute a large portion of the vehicle profile. In addition, advancements in electro-optical detection technologies have rendered low light conditions and visual camouflage inadequate for concealment of military ground vehicles on the modern battlefield. To satisfy this need, Luna and our assembled team members have developed a low-cost tire coating technology to match the multispectral camouflage and concealment requirements for the new Ground Vehicle Coating System (GVCS).  This coating will completely cover the tire and match the vehicle body paint in color, specular gloss, and provide consistent camouflage and concealment across the vehicle profile matching the enhanced spectral range of the new GVCS coating systems. The goal for this effort is to develop a coating that provides multispectral protection, while meeting the physical and environmental stability specifications defined for this paint system.