Domestic Production of Refractory Powders for Ultra-High Temperature Ceramics and Aerospace Alloys
SBIR Opportunity Analysis
The Defense Logistics Agency is seeking SBIR solutions to develop wholly domestic capability for producing high-purity refractory powders for aerospace alloys and ultra-high temperature ceramics used in defense applications. The work centers on recycling or producing refractory metals, carbides, and borides, with Phase I focused on a proof-of-concept production process, preliminary materials characterization, and a commercialization roadmap, and Phase II aimed at pilot-scale production and a business case. Preference is given to modular, scalable, competitively priced approaches that improve supply-chain resiliency, and proposed work should be in the TRL/MRL 3 to 6 range; the topic also notes ITAR/EAR applicability and disclosure of foreign national involvement. Phase I is limited to 12 months and $100,000, and applications are due June 24, 2026.