The proposed SBIR program would develop an innovative, light-weight, low-modulus, and durable Metal Rubber™ sensor system for NASA's hypersonic decelerator entry systems. Some possible other applications for similar Metal Rubber™ materials for other NASA platforms (particularly aerospace systems) include: low-modulus strain and skin friction sensors for adaptive / morphing aircraft systems, hypersonic sensors for other inflatable re-entry systems, low-modulus materials or conformal coatings for EMI shielding, and flexible electrically-conductive wires.
There is a large market for low-weight high strain sensors for scientific balloons, high altitude morphing systems, and similar re-entry inflatable systems, specifically for NASA and the aircraft industry. NanoSonic's low modulus Metal Rubber™ sensor plies and multi-element sensor arrays have unique applications in systems where strain is large and conventional stress and strain sensors mechanically fail. Because Metal Rubber™ is extremely durable, low modulus, and can have high electrical conductivity; it can also be used in high performance, highly flexible and mechanically robust electronic flex circuits, flexible displays and smart electronic fabrics, and as a replacement for conventional lead-based solder.
More »