IARPA seeks biodegradable drone components that lift off, then leave no trace
In Maryland, Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity is seeking information on potential biodegradable components for unmanned aerial vehicle propulsion systems. The Request for Information singles out turbines, motors and engine components that would biodegrade under UV or in water.
The IARPA RFI follows a successful demonstration by Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency of structural drone components that degrade on command via UV photopolymers. Components of propulsion systems are more challenging to replace with biodegradable materials, given that they are exposed to heat and mechanical stress. IARPA has singled out silk, keratin, collagen, chitin, cellulose, mycelium, bioacrylics, and biobased derived ceramics as potential materials.
Category: Chemicals & Materials
