The researchers found that the polymers best suited for this process reside in the polyurethane, polyimide, epoxy resin, silicone polymer, and aromatic heterocyclic rigid-rod and ladder polymer groups. Likewise, their results indicate that the most successful solvents for this process come from the group consisting of dimethyl sulfoxide; tetrahydrofuran; acetone; methanesulfonic acid; polyphosphoric acid; and N,N-dimethyl acetamide. Their experiments also suggest that both the polymer and the solvent should be somewhat polar.

UDRI filed the patent application, and the Air Force subsequently transitioned the methodology to PRCDeSoto International, Inc. UDRI is now pursuing commercial application of the technology, and NanoSperse, LLC (Beavercreek, Ohio), has developed and prepared master batches of conductive nanocomposites for technology transfer. AFRL is currently conducting follow-on research to investigate the development of a metalcoated nanotube for use in nanocomposites. This material would provide improved conductivity for applications such as signal wire shielding, where reduced thickness and increased conductivity are imperative.

Materials scientists will ultimately use this patented process to develop a wide variety of commercial and military applications for aerospace, electronics, automotive, and chemical markets. Some of the specific technology areas that will benefit from conductive nanocomposite materials are electromagnetic interference shielding and pulse hardening; electrical signal transfer; electrostatic painting; electrostatic discharge; and various electrooptical devices, such as photovoltaic cells.

Dr. Max D. Alexander and Mr. Tim Anderl (Anteon Corporation), of the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, wrote this article. For more information, contact TECH CONNECT at (800) 203-6451 or place a request at http://www.afrl.af.mil/techconn_index.asp. Reference document ML-H-05-10.