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

Description

Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Grounding Multilayer Missile Coating for Lightning Strike Mitigation (GRAMS). The GRAMS provides protection to large missiles against direct lightning strikes by offering a unique solution that consists of novel layered and fused material that is highly electrically conductive, thermally insulating, extremely lightweight, and bonded to the existing missile skin. GRAMS strips will either create a conductive path allowing lightning current to drain to the structural ground before launching or disperse the high current channels in the air after launch. Testing with a simulated lightning strike will demonstrate mitigation of the direct effects of lightning strikes. The flexible thin strips can be fabricated into various shapes and bonded to the surface of a missile skin or motor casing. As a result, this technology offers missile survivability against direct lightning strikes, thermal effects, and debris. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of GRAMS by fabricating and testing samples. In Phase II, POC plans develop a prototype consisting of protective sheets designed to fit the chosen missile platform. Approved for Public Release 14-MDA-8047 (14 Nov 14)