100 + INNOVATIONS
IIK Materials
Saving lives through advanced sound absorption and fire-safety materials
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Challenge
• vessel noise harms marine life, and regulations are expected to tighten in the coming decade.
• sonar detection of submarines is difficult beyond 300 meters, but engine noise remains a risk.
• current rubber soundabsorbing materials deteriorate under pressures, increasing maintenance costs.
Solution
IIK Materials’ nanocomposite technology operates as a sound absorber at a significantly wider range of pressures than current rubber solutions. The new material structure is more durable, requires less maintenance, and is both safe and inexpensive to produce without relying on imports. It suits military and marine uses, like shipbuilding, and is environmentally friendly, flame retardant, and easy to recycle. It is antifungal and has low toxicity, posing no risk in the event of an accident. of 28 HDR researcher and 3 postdoctoral fellows spread across our 3 university nodes
Target customers / end-users
• shipbuilders( Austal, ASC or Navy) for submarine use
• ships for underwater sound absorption
• fire-safety materials for internal furniture and uniforms
Progress
• provisional patent filed through UNSW
• tests indicate 33 % better sound absorption than current market-leading rubber option
• initial conversations with the Defence Science and Technology Group and next step is to build the prototype
Spinout
Lab validated
TRL 4
Advanced Manufacturing, Materials & Design
The team specialises in materials development and mechanical engineering. It has developed an innovative technology that offers 33 % better sound absorption than the current market-leading rubber option and is also cost-effective to recycle, antifungal, fire-resistant, and low in toxicity.
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