Nickel Molybdenum Hard Chrome Alternative

The U.S. Air Force, through AFWERX under the Department of Defense, is seeking a direct-to-Phase-II SBIR solution to replace hexavalent chromium in aerospace hard chrome applications with a nickel molybdenum plating alternative. The work centers on developing and validating the Maxterial H-max plating chemistry for uses such as landing gear actuators, with fatigue testing, performance evaluation, environmental compliance analysis, and a transition plan for manufacturing integration. This effort is intended to move the technology from an estimated TRL 4 to TRL 7-8, with ITAR/EAR controls applying and offerors required to disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals and their tasks. The topic is scheduled for release on June 3, 2026, opens June 24, 2026, and closes with applications due July 22, 2026 at 4:00 PM UTC.