TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER OPPORTUNITY -- Shape Memory Polymer Bonding Method: LAR-18335-1

NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, VA solicits inquiries from companies interested in obtaining license rights to commercialize, manufacture and market the following technology. License rights may be issued on an exclusive or nonexclusive basis and may include specific fields of use. NASA provides no funding in conjunction with these potential licenses. THE TECHNOLOGY: Scientists at NASA Langley Research Center have developed technology to increase the adhesive strength between shape memory polymer composites (SMPs) and metal alloys. Shape memory materials, including SMPs, have been explored for numerous applications because of their unique shape memory capabilities. These materials can change shape and/or other properties in response to changes in an external stimulus such as stress, temperature or an electric field. Applications include use as an adaptive wing structure, smart armors, and intelligent medical devices. Initially developed for use in an adaptive wing structure, this NASA technology is a method to enhance the bond strength of SMPs that are joined to structural metal alloys. The method utilizes toughening and coupling agents to create better cohesion within the SMP and better adhesion between the SMP and metal alloy at the material interface, thus reducing the possibility of fracture leading to catastrophic failure. Tests have shown this innovation to more than double the adhesive strength between an SMP and a metal alloy when compared to a non-modified system. NASA is seeking to license this technology commercially. US Patent pending. To express interest in this opportunity, please respond to [email protected] with the title of this Technology Transfer Opportunity as listed in this FBO notice and your preferred contact information. Please also provide the nature of your interest in the technology along with a brief background of your company. For more information about licensing other NASA-developed technologies, please visit the NASA Technology Transfer Portal at http://technology.nasa.gov/ . These responses are provided to members of NASA Langley’s Office of Strategic Analysis and Business Development “OSACB” for the purpose of promoting public awareness of NASA-developed technology products, and conducting preliminary market research to determine public interest in and potential for future licensing opportunities. If direct licensing interest results from this posting, OSACB will follow the required formal licensing process of posting in the Federal Register. No follow-on procurement is expected to result from responses to this Notice.