Nanocomp Technologies,
Inc., a developer of advanced performance materials and component products
from carbon nanotubes (CNTs), today announced it has been awarded an extension
to its existing development contract with the U.S. Army Natick Soldier Systems
Center in Massachusetts. The new contract modifies one signed in August 2008
between the parties to develop carbon nanotube materials for the purpose of
improving body armor.
Earlier in 2009, Nanocomp successfully stopped 9MM bullets in controlled ballistics
testing with CNT composite panels several millimeters thick. The company will
use the funding to further develop and refine its CNT products with the goal
of expanding upon these encouraging initial results.
"We have worked with the Army Natick Soldier Systems Center for the past
several years and have made significant progress toward the ultimate goal of
delivering lighter weight, advanced body armor solutions for U.S. servicemen
and women," said Peter Antoinette, president and CEO of Nanocomp Technologies.
"But there is still plenty of work left to do and today's announcement
underscores the Army's clear commitment to continue the development of
next-generation body armor."
"When fully proven, this advance could also supply lightweight armor
protection for vehicles and aircraft," he said.
Nanocomp Technologies produces large area CNT sheets and conductive yarns for
a number of additional military applications, including EMI shielding and a
lighter weight replacement for copper wiring in aerospace electrical systems,
which would yield significant savings in fuel costs.
Posted November 3rd, 2009
