SBIR Phase I: Automotive Nanocomposites

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop a low permeability composite material by applying a clay barrier film (CBF) nanotechnology to thermoplastic polymer systems (HDPE) for automotive applications, particularly for the manufacturing of fuel tanks. Preliminary work to date has shown that CBF nanocomposites are more than 400 times lower in permeability toward representative fuel components (such as ethanol, isoctane, and toluene) in comparison to the pure polymer. An additional goal of this proposed work is to improve the adhesion at the interface of the inorganic CBF and organic HDPE phases, thereby eliminating the formation of ""blisters "" (filled with liquid fuel) that compromise the structural integrity and strength of the composite. Successful completion of the proposed research project will lead to thermoplastic polymer-based materials capable of meeting the fuel emission standards for both conventional and for flex fuel vehicles. Other potential applications of the proposed technology include high barrier interior paneling, food and drug packaging.