Handheld Nonlinear Detection of Delamination and Intrusion Faults in Composites

In Phase I of the SBIR program, LEEOAT Company will develop a hand-held high-resolution ultrasonic nonlinear imager for non-destructive inspection (NDI) of delamination and intrusion faults in composite structures. We will reduce-to-practice the innovation by conducting experiments on composite structures with calibrated faults. Additionally, we will design as well as theoretically simulate the imaging NDI system. Finally, we will estimate the cost/effort for the fabrication and testing of the portable cost-effective NDI prototype to be executed in Phase II of the program.

The development of the portable cost-effective ultrasonic nondestructive inspection methodology and imager for the detection of delamination and faults in composites, will open a wide window of commercial opportunities in civilian aviation diagnostic applications, as well as for high technology manufacturing quality control. Additionally, the imaging technology will be used for medical imaging.

The development of the portable cost-effective ultrasonic nondestructive inspection methodology and imager for the detection of delamination and faults in composites, will open a wide window of commercial opportunities for NASA maintenance and mission ready applications, as well as for high technology manufacturing quality control of NASA components.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.