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

Description

Signature management technology such as camouflage coatings on military tactical vehicles significantly reduces detection by enemy combatants. Black tires and tracks, however, are in direct contrast to the vehicle and surroundings and constitute a large portion of the vehicle profile. A durable, color-matching coating that can be simply applied to the tires and treads will reduce the overall vehicle signature, providing additional protection to the combat soldiers. The coating must conform to the elastomeric material in the tire, survive aggressive driving conditions on and off road, not interfere with the vehicle performance, tolerate thermal and UV environmental challenges, and maintain color and gloss specifications over the lifetime of the mission. Luna proposes to produce and assess a durable, color-matching paint system that can be easily applied to combat vehicle tires. The coating will also provide additional protective benefits against fluid attack and environmental (UV, ozone) factors. This coating system is directly relevant to any military vehicle with rubber tires or tracks.