Findings and Recommendations - Implications of Emerging Micro-and Nanotechnologies - page 205

Finding 3-5. The application of nanoscience to structural materials is a
promising area with important implications for Air Force systems. Such
materials could be used for lightweight structures, improved coatings, multi-
functional structures, and micromachined structures. Military-specific struc-
tural materials applications need special attention by the Air Force. Many of
the emerging nanoscience developments will march ahead without regard to
potential Air Force needs or imperatives, and some will find their way into
commercial products. However, some military structural materials needs
will never be addressed by commercial industry. These include stealthy struc-
tures, thermal management structures for spacecraft, lighter-weight military
aircraft, and structures for reduced logistics and maintenance costs. How-
ever, if the Air Force is to exploit and implement the most compelling ad-
vances, even those from the commercial world, then aerospace system de-
signers and manufacturers and their suppliers as well as the Air Force users
must constantly be aware of those advances. There need to be mechanisms to
link technical developments to military system applications throughout the
entire supply chain.
Recommendation 3-5. The AFRL should continue its strong efforts in struc-
tural materials to capitalize on research and development advances. The Air
Force should invest in establishing capability on the part of contractors to
supply selected military-specific products at the same time as it invests at
AFRL to encourage collaboration with cutting-edge researchers and the
comprehensive tracking, where possible, of research and development and
steering it toward Air Force needs.
Finding 3-6. Nanoscience as applied to the structural materials used for
MEMS components is key to the successful deployment of MEMS technology.
Unresolved issues such as stiction prevention, sidewall morphology, and
durability and stability of micromechanical structures are obstacles to the
deployment of reliable MEMS sensors and actuators in military systems.
Recommendation 3-6. The Air Force should focus development resources
on materials issues that currently limit MEMS deployment for the military.
These include structural stability, surface durability, manufacturable fabri-
cation processes, and packaging.
Finding 4-1. Lithography and pattern transfer and self-assembly are key
enablers for evolving micro- and nanotechnologies.
Recommendation 4-1. The AFRL R&D program will require access to
micro- and nanolithography and pattern transfer tools. This should be ac-
complished using available national facilities or otherwise providing the