Consolidation of Adhesives and Sealants
NCMS Project #: 140827
Problem: As the United States transitions to lightweight materials for industrial applications, a need has arisen to use non-traditional joining methods. Lightweight materials, like aluminum, composites, and magnesium alloys cannot be fastened in the same way as traditional metals. The world is transitioning from bolts and welds to adhesives and joints, whether the application is commercial or military. A consequence of this transition is the maintenance issues associated with replacement adhesives and sealants.
Benefit: This effort will make the specification-compliant list of replacement materials available for the general industry. All defense maintenance depots will benefit from a list of specification-compliant replacement materials for obsolete adhesives and sealants. Information will be placed in DTIC (MSAT database) and the DIM, making it available for the broader military community.
Solution/Approach: The project team will perform a survey of the adhesive and sealants current specified. The activity will be performed at the three largest Army depots: Red River (TX), Rock Island (IL), and Anniston (AL). The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) functions at these depots are a ready (although not necessarily complete) source of the necessary information. Existing data will be validated/updated for each of the depots. Lists of currently-used joining materials will be consolidated to eliminate duplicate materials for similar applications, and gaps identified. Replacement materials will be identified for each gap based on the performance requirements and/or material specification, where possible. Finally, a list of unmet needs will be developed.
Impact on Warfighter:
- Improve reliability of weapons systems and platforms
- Reduce sustainment effort and cost
DOD Participation:
- U.S. Army TARDEC
- U.S. Army (Red River)
- U.S. Army (Rock Island Arsenal)
- U.S. Army (Anniston)
Industry Participation:
- PPG Industries, Inc.
- NCMS
Benefit Area(s):
- Cost savings
- Safety
Focus Area:
- Coatings/corrosion prevention