Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: MDA14-014

Description

To address the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) need for improved lightweight solutions for lightning mitigation for large missiles, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to advance the development of a new Grounding Multilayer Missile Coating for Lightning Strike Mitigation (GRAMS). GRAMS provides protection to large missiles against direct lightning strikes by offering a unique solution that consists of novel layered material that is highly electrically conductive, thermally insulating, extremely lightweight, and bonded to the existing missile skin. GRAMS has an outer surface that is electrically conductive and that can survive high launch temperature, and also can shield against electromagnetic pulse (EMP). In Phase I, POC fabricated and tested samples with a simulated lightning strike and tested at high temperature. In Phase II, POC will optimize the material and fabricate larger (~24 in. x 24 in.) test samples and a subscale prototype. These will be tested with high current (up to 200 kA) lightning tests. This technology offers missile survivability against direct lightning strikes, thermal effects, and debris, which directly addresses the MDA requirements. We will focus on developing a plan for integrating GRAMS into an MDA missile platform, and layout a commercialization plan to extend GRAMS to civilian markets.