Diver Safe Grease Navy SBIR FY2008.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2008.1 Topic No.: N08-043 Topic Title: Diver Safe Grease Proposal No.: N081-043-0316 Firm: Texas Research Institute Austin, Inc. 9063 Bee Caves Road Austin, Texas 78733-6201 Contact: John Bulluck Phone: (512) 263-2101 Web Site: www.tri-austin.com Abstract: Submarine hangar areas have actuated parts (doors, hatches, etc.) that must be lubricated to ensure correct operation and long service-life. The Navy currently uses Termalene���, a hydrocarbon-based grease, for this purpose. Unfortunately, NAVSEA has found that Termalener off-gasses toxic compounds in pressurized environments, making it unsuitable for use in the enclosed and sealed areas encountered by divers during diving operations. For manned diving operations, the Navy currently uses Krytoxr 240AC or Halocarbon 25-5S, which are both based on fluorinated polyethers. These greases have excellent performance and do not release toxic chemicals. However, the resistance to seawater washout is low, and these expensive materials constantly have to be reapplied to ensure adequate lubrication. This constant expense is unacceptable to the Navy. TRI/Austin is proposing to develop a new diver safe grease based on combinations of fluoropolymer and hydrocarbon greases. The new grease will, at a minimum, provide the same lubrication properties as those currently used. Additionally, the grease will offer the same resistance to washout as Termalener, but will not off-gas any toxic chemicals, making it safe for use in sealed environments. The Navy can expect to save both time and money associated with the constant reapplication of the currently used materials. Benefits: The newly developed grease will be applicable for use on all Naval submarines, and all other Military submergence watercraft. Use of the new technology save the Navy from performing hundreds of hours of submarine maintenance, and is expected to result in the savings of time, material, and money. Return