Pyrophoric Nanoparticles for IR Decoys Navy SBIR FY2010.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2010.2 Topic No.: N102-125 Topic Title: Pyrophoric Nanoparticles for IR Decoys Proposal No.: N102-125-0409 Firm: Nanocomposix, Inc. 4878 Ronson CT STE K San Diego, California 92111 Contact: Steven Oldenburg Phone: (619) 890-0704 Web Site: www.nanocomposix.com Abstract: Pyrotechnic and pyrophoric IR decoy flares protect military aircraft from IR seeking surface-to-air missiles by closely mimicking the electromagnetic signature of the aircraft in order to divert the missile from its target. Pyrophoric based decoys have advantages over pyrotechnic technology in that they are more covert, are less likely to start fires, and produce a spectral signature that is more effective against dual spectral seeking MANPADs. Here we investigate the use of pyrophoric nanoparticles in IR decoy devices where control over the size, shape, surface, and aggregation state of the nanoparticles is optimized to increase the intensity and tune the spectral signature when exposed to air. Benefits: Pyrophoric nanoparticle based IR decoy devices will be a cost effective format for developing IR decoys with increased performance and advanced capabilities. Larger radiative surface areas and intensities will be obtainable from cartridges with standard dimensions increasing the capacity of existing countermeasure dispensers. The device will be equal or less hazardous than current technologies and will be non-corrosive to aircraft surfaces. Return