HUNTSVILLE, AL., (August 19, 2024) – KODA Technologies, in partnership with Purdue University, has been selected by the Missile Defense Agency for a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) award. This award supports the development of advanced materials for solid rocket motor (SRM) nozzles through a project known as VENoM, or Very Efficient Nozzle Materials.
Modern SRMs use advanced propellant formulations that produce increasingly high temperatures and pressures in anticipation of improved performance. These extreme environments can lead to SRM nozzle degradation, deposits of unwanted material, and, ultimately, nozzle failure. Innovative materials are crucial for SRM nozzles to survive in extreme thermal and oxidative environments, and producing said nozzle materials at a relatively low cost is necessary for common and sustained implementation.
The successful execution of VENoM will provide vital contributions to both the Department of Defense (DoD) and broader industry needs.