NU 2016-058
INVENTORS
- Gregory Olson*
- Nicholas Wengrenovich
SHORT DESCRIPTION
This technology produces a gamma-prime strengthened austenitic TRIP steel that delivers a balance of high strength, ductility, and blast resistance for defense applications.
BACKGROUND
Military and defense sectors face a challenge in obtaining materials that can withstand high-impact explosions while retaining ductility. Current materials force a trade-off between strength and flexibility and are often costly. There is a clear need for innovative solutions that provide both durability and performance under extreme conditions.
ABSTRACT
The invention exploits the transformation induced plasticity (TRIP) effect in an optimized alloy design. It defines clear property objectives, designs the ideal composition, and subjects the alloy to a series of processing steps including deoxidizing, melting, homogenizing, hot working, solution treatment, fast cooling, and tempering. The result is an iron-based alloy with superior shear localization resistance and a balanced mechanical profile that meets demanding military performance criteria.
MARKET OPPORTUNITY
The global market for ballistic protection was valued at $15.3 billion in 2024 and is projected to exceed $26 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 5.6% (Source: Global Market Insights, 2024). A key driver of this multi-billion dollar market is the urgent demand from the defense & military sector, which accounts for over 60% of the market, or approximately $9.3 billion (Source: Global Market Insights, 2024).
DEVELOPMENT STAGE
TRL-4 - Prototype Validated in Lab: Key functions have been demonstrated in a laboratory-scale prototype, validating the design and performance predictions.
APPLICATIONS
- Military armor and naval ship hull protection: Provides enhanced blast and fragment resistance.
- High-performance structural components: Suitable for applications where high strength and ductility are critical.
- Defense infrastructure: Assists in designing materials for improved safety in explosive environments.
ADVANTAGES
- Balances strength and ductility: Offers superior mechanical performance without compromising on flexibility.
- Enhances blast resistance: Provides improved protection against high-impulse events.
- Streamlines production: Optimizes processing steps to reduce manufacturing costs.
- Improves safety: Increases protection for both military personnel and civilians.
IP STATUS
Issued US Patent 11,242,576 ( US11242576B2 ) and Issued US Patent 12,129,525 ( US12129525B2 )