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Positron Systems Awarded Research Contract from U.S. Military's Missile Defen
e Agency
BOISE, Idaho, Sep 15, 2003 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Positron Systems, an innovator in
the field of nondestructive and material characterization testing, has been
awarded a Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Phase I contract by the U.S.
Military's Missile Defense Agency. Under the contract, Positron Systems will
demonstrate that its Photon Induced Positron Annihilation (PIPA) technology can
detect structural and chemical reaction issues in solid rocket motor
propellants, prior to the onset of propellant grain cracking. The ability to
detect material defects in advance -- before full scale testing of expensive
solid rocket motors -- is expected to save the Missile Defense Agency millions
of dollars.
The research that Positron Systems will conduct is aimed at verifying solid
rocket propellant structural behavior, chemical interactions that result in
structural changes and failure predictions under severe thermal mechanical, and
ignition pressurization conditions. Once the company has demonstrated
proof-of-principle, application-specific portable system designs will be
developed for field use.
"Recognition of the unique potential of Positron Systems' technologies to
nondestructively inspect for defects in solid rocket motor propellants by the
Missile Defense Agency with the award of this research contract is very
gratifying, especially considering the highly competitive nature of SBIR awards.
More than 1850 applicants competed for awards with the Missile Defense Agency in
the 2003. 1 solicitation period," said Steve Bolen, president and CEO of
Positron Systems. "However, the real winner if we are successful in developing
this portable inspection capability will be the U.S. Military with very
significant cost savings."
Phase I research will commence at Positron Systems' Test and Analysis Center in
Pocatello, Idaho immediately.
About Photon Induced Positron Annihilation (PIPA)
The PIPA process involves penetrating materials with a photon beam generated by
a linear accelerator or other techniques. This process creates positrons, which
are attracted to nano-sized defects or changes in the lattice structure of the
material. Eventually, the positrons collide with electrons in the material and
are annihilated, releasing energy in the form of gamma rays. The gamma ray
energy spectrum creates a distinct and readable signature of the size, quantity
and type of defects present in the material.
PIPA can detect a wide variety of damage types in a wide variety of materials
including metals, polymers ceramics and composites. Because PIPA examines
materials at the atomic level, it can detect damage at its earliest stage, from
initial manufacture through failure. The technology can also determine the
remaining useful life of a component and detect damage in 2nd layer materials.
Pricing and Availability
Positron Systems currently provides induced positron annihilation testing at the
company's Test and Analysis Center. Service price varies according to testing
time, material of interest, and other customer specific criteria.
About Positron Systems
Founded in 2001, Positron Systems' headquarters is located in Boise, Idaho. For
more information, visit the company Web site at www.positronsystems.com or call
208-672-1923, ext. 204
SOURCE: Positron Systems
CONTACT: Positron Systems
Scott Ritchie, 208-672-1923, ext. 204
scottr@positronsystems.com
or
Point Communications
Amy Childress, 208-407-5002
amyechildress@hotmail.com
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