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Ultrapure, Spherical, Monodisperse, Unagglomerated Nanopowders for Infrared Window Materials

Award Information
Agency: Department of Defense
Branch: Navy
Contract: N68936-03-C-0059
Agency Tracking Number: N031-0626
Amount: $69,929.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: N/A
Solicitation Number: N/A
Timeline
Solicitation Year: N/A
Award Year: 2003
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): N/A
Award End Date (Contract End Date): N/A
Small Business Information
20 New England Business Center
Andover, MA 01810
United States
DUNS: 073800062
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Edward Salley
 Senior Research Scientist
 (978) 689-0003
 salley@psicorp.com
Business Contact
 B. David Green
Title: Executive Vice President,
Phone: (978) 689-0003
Email: green@psicorp.com
Research Institution
N/A
Abstract

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to fabricate high quality ceramic nanoparticles using an electrostatically controlled spray process. Although the commercial production of nanoparticles has steadily increased over the last several years, the use ofnanoparticles for optical ceramic fabrication has been limited. Theoretical expectations have not been met with existing methods due to particle impurities, broad size distributions, and shape anomalies. In the proposed process, cost-effective ultra-highpurity reagents and streamlined handling methods will be used to synthesize the materials. The integration of electrostatic control during the formation, transportation, and collection of the particles will be used to assure high quality and efficiency ismaintained. At the point of particle formation the development of a multi-element array will increase product throughput to reach suggested manufacturing levels. Successful completion of the Phase 1 program will demonstrate the production ofmonodisperse, sub-25 nm, high-purity ceramic nanoparticles meeting the need for improved ceramic materials. The total world market for nanoparticulate materials reached $492.5 million in 2000 and is expected to grow at an average annual rate of 12.8% overthe next 5 years. Consumers include both commercial and military companies. A partial list of applications for ceramic nanomaterials currently includes uses as abrasives, phosphors, fuel cells, cosmetics, and hard coatings. Success of the proposedtechnology will allow the nanopowders produced to gain immediate acceptance into existing markets. Additionally, new markets within the areas of structural ceramics and optics will be formed.

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

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