Lower Cost Approach for Production of Improved Performance Ceramic Armor Systems Navy SBIR FY2010.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2010.1 Topic No.: N101-003 Topic Title: Lower Cost Approach for Production of Improved Performance Ceramic Armor Systems Proposal No.: N101-003-0699 Firm: Ceralink Inc. 105 Jordan Road Troy, New York 12180 Contact: Morgana Fall Phone: (518) 283-7733 Web Site: www.ceralink.com Abstract: There is a need for higher temperature, lightweight armor to be used in the U.S. Marine Corps EFV. Ceralink proposes to develop a polymer-ceramic composite to meet the needs of this and many other applications. The ultrahigh temperature polymer is commercially available and possesses outstanding chemical resistance and mechanical performance up to >500�F. The ceramic will be produced using microwave heating and offers several advantages over the conventionally produced material including lower cost and improved mechanical properties. In Phase I, composites will be fabricated and evaluated at outside testing facilities including environmental testing and measurement of properties of interest for armor ceramics. The program will culminate in the identification of preferred armor configurations based on weight, cost, and performance. These will be ballistically tested in the Phase I Option against the 20 mm FSP threat. Benefits: The development of higher temperature, lower cost, improved mechanical property composite armor would be beneficial for both vehicular and body armor. There are a multitude of non-military applications for the ceramic component as well, including furnace components, automotive components, and the wear and friction market. Return