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.
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