Vitrimer Patches to Repair Composite Parts with a Complex Shape in a Contested Environment

The Department of Defense, specifically the Navy, is seeking innovative solutions for repairing composite parts with complex shapes in contested environments through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The primary objective is to explore the feasibility of using vitrimer resin-based patches that can restore the full strength of damaged composites, overcoming the limitations of traditional wet-layup methods. Vitrimers, a new class of resins with dynamic chemistry, offer the potential for effective repairs in forward-deployed settings, with applications extending beyond aviation to industries such as automotive and urban mobility. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on January 8, 2025, with proposals due by February 5, 2025; further details can be found at the official SBIR website.