Additive Manufacturing Equipment for Enhanced Research of Novel Carbon Nanotube - Metal Matrix Composite Structures
Abstract
With the new equipment we envision several new areas of research on material systems of interest to DoD, such as 6000 and 7000 series aluminum alloys, superalloys, refractory metals, copper, and hybrid ceramic systems. The new equipment will allow us to process materials that have higher melting points and/or are highly reflective. We request funds to purchase a SLM 125 Additive Manufacturing (AM) machine with a 400 W laser. The equipment is needed to greatly enhance our ability to carry out two simultaneous Phase II STTR/SBIR programs (Navy STTR N16A-T007 and Army SBIR A17-033), in which we have formulated novel carbon nanotube metallic matrix composite (CNMMC) materials for use in AM. University of Dayton (UD) and its commercial research partner have already demonstrated mechanical property improvements in DoD-relevant metal alloys. The purchase of the SLM 125 will allow the direct transition of new material systems and associated processing capability to the Warfighter because the machine’s capabilities (laser power, heated bed, speed of processing) are identical to the systems likely to be fielded by the services. The equipment will allow the establishment of the University of Dayton “Center for Research on Additive Manufacturing of Metal Matrix Composites” (UD-AM-MMC). In anticipation of the start of a substantial research program in this area, UD has assembled the necessary facilities for the tasks of material formulation and characterization. However, UD currently lacks an AM machine with the laser power to optimally process several materials of interest to DoD. The SLM 125 will allow UD to effectively optimize current material formulations and processing parameters, as well as explore other harder-to-process material systems. The proposed equipment will complete the Center, providing the necessary processing throughput to address increased research activities and expand educational opportunities for students.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Apr 24, 2019
- Source ID
- N000141912165
Entities
People
- Donald Klosterman
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Dayton