FORT DEFIANCE INDUSTRIES LLC — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: N182-096

Description

Sterilization requirements in far-forward Roles 1 & 2 are challenging and not easily satisfied with currently available commercial devices. Steam-sterilant systems are hindered by excessive cube/weight, large power requirements, high water consumption and fragile unreliable designs. Non-steam options such as ozone and ethylene oxide have harmful residues, undesirable off-gassing, long cycle times, and consumables that create a serious logistical problem. Steam is recognized as the “gold standard” for medical sterilization, and Fort Defiance Industries (FDI) has the vision and capability to make sustainable, portable, energy-efficient steam sterilization a reality for Roles 1 & 2. Smaller allied militaries around the world will greatly benefit from a portable ruggedized energy-efficient medical sterilizer. In addition, NGO’s, and non-profits that provide disaster relief operations and remote area medical clinics are in dire need of this device. The humanitarian impact of bringing modern steam sterilization to remote areas is significant. FDI has unique competencies and experience such as (1) engineering, technical and manufacturing expertise, (2) ISO 13485 medical device certification and FDA registration, (3) experience navigating the arduous FDA 510(k) process, (4) specific knowledge in the development of field sterilizers that will pass military testing, and (5) research and academic partnerships to leverage cutting-edge technologies.