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Lightweight Aluminum/Nano Composites for Automotive Drive Train Applications

Award Information
Agency: Department of Energy
Branch: N/A
Contract: DE-FG02-06ER84540
Agency Tracking Number: 80369S06-I
Amount: $99,914.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: 29
Solicitation Number: DE-FG01-05ER05-28
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2005
Award Year: 2006
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): N/A
Award End Date (Contract End Date): N/A
Small Business Information
2763 Culver Avenue
Dayton, OH 45429
United States
DUNS: N/A
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Bhanumathi Chelluri
 Dr.
 (937) 296-1806
 bhanu@iap.com
Business Contact
 John Barber
Title: Dr.
Phone: (937) 296-1806
Email: johnb@iap.com
Research Institution
N/A
Abstract

In the automotive industry, a 10 percent reduction in vehicle weight corresponds to a six-to-eight percent decrease in fuel usage. Reductions in the mass of moving components (in engine and drive train components) are doubly valuable because they lead to corresponding reductions in friction within the engine, further improving efficiency. This project will develop an aluminum (Al) nanocomposite material ¿ which will combine light weight, strength, and tribological properties ¿ for use in automotive power train components. In Phase I, nano-reinforcements will be dispersed in an Al matrix at various concentrations, and the composite powders will be compacted to near-net shape and sintered. The feasibility of the processing method to obtain high-performance cost-effective material, with good strength and tribological properties, will be demonstrated. Phase II will optimize the material and fabricate a prototype power train gear. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The light-weight aluminum nanocomposites should find use in engine components in automobiles, trucks, and hybrid vehicles, leading to greater fuel economy. In addition, the composites should find use in high speed bearings, aerospace, and other military applications.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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