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RNT’s NanoFoil® Recognized in National Nanotechnology Initiative Strategic Plan
Hunt Valley, MD – January, 2005
RNT, developer and manufacturer of its patented NanoFoil®, which precisely controls the instantaneous release of heat energy for joining and reaction initiation applications, was recognized in the 2004 National Nanotechnology Initiative Strategic Plan for the critical role NanoFoil plays in helping ensure the US remains a world leader in nanotechnology R&D.
Developed by the National Science and Technology Council, Committee on Technology (Subcommittee on Nanoscale Science, Engineering, and Technology), the Strategic Plan outlines the vision, goals and strategies of the US Government’s National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) for the next five years and beyond. Including a cover photo of NanoFoil, the plan acknowledges the significance of this RNT technology in the advancement of commercial bonding foils as well as the success of government and industry partnerships in developing sustainable technologies.
The plan states, “A broad array of customers, from computer chip and circuit board makers to aerospace manufacturers, are enthusiastic about this new bonding method. The Reactive NanoTechnologies story shows how entrepreneurs can transfer technology developed through federally funded research to the private sector.”
“RNT’s inclusion in this plan highlights the importance of RNT’s NanoFoil in advancing beyond the capabilities of existing technologies,” noted Timothy P. Weihs, Ph.D., RNT Co-Founder and Chief Technical Officer. “With a high level of anticipation for RNT’s technology, we are taking measures to accelerate its move into the mass market already taking place.”
In response to sizeable demand for its technology, RNT is expanding commercial delivery of NanoFoil for reaction initiation and joining applications that current technology cannot effectively or economically address. Specifically, activities include the addition of key executives, building manufacturing facilities and growing distribution channels.
About the NNI Initiative
The NNI initiative, created as a result of the 21st Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act, recognizes the importance of nanotechnology for economic growth, national security and quality of life. It offers goals for sustaining world-class nanotechnology R&D, advancing infrastructure and interdisciplinary education. Key agencies involved in the report include the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
To see the full report, please go to http://www.nano.gov/NNI_Strategic_Plan_2004.pdf.
About NanoFoil®
RNT’s patented NanoFoil® is a multilayer foil which enables reaction initiation for propellant ignition, flares and fuses and large/small scale joining of dissimilar materials, making such applications predictable, controllable and far more affordable. When activated by a small pulse of local energy from electrical, optical or thermal sources, the foil delivers localized heat in a fraction of a second.
Key areas served by RNT’s NanoFoil® technology include:
- Reaction Initiation: For propellant ignition, flares and fuses, NanoFoil® provides safety, control and predictability.
- Joining: Utilizing RNT’s patented NanoBond® process, for large-area applications such as armor mounting, structural joining and joining of sputtering targets. Can also be used in small-area applications such as bonding of electrical components. Benefits include lower stress, bonding of dissimilar materials and higher electrical/thermal conductivity
About RNT
Headquartered in Hunt Valley, Maryland, RNT was founded in 2001 by engineering veterans Timothy P. Weihs, Ph.D., who now serves as Chief Technical Officer, and Omar M. Knio, Ph.D., who is RNT’s Senior Vice President. The company develops and manufactures NanoFoil® to precisely control the instantaneous release of heat energy for reaction initiation and joining applications that current technology can not effectively or economically address. RNT has also developed its patented NanoBond® joining process to ensure the benefits of NanoFoil® are maximized.
Commercial distribution of NanoFoil® for energetics and joining applications is taking place from RNT’s onsite manufacturing machinery. The company is utilizing its financial backing from a variety of sources – including over $4.5 million in grants from the National Science Foundation – to develop additional manufacturing sites and craft its patented technology for additional applications. RNT has also signed licensing agreements with a number of Fortune 500 Companies. . Its breakthrough technology has earned several prestigious awards including the 2005 “R&D 100” from R&D Magazine, the 2005 Nano 50™ from NASA Nanotech Briefs Magazine and recognition in The National Nanotechnology Initiative Strategic Plan in December 2004. For more information please visit http://www.rntfoil.com.
RNT Contact:
Jody Mahaffey
e-Reach Communications
(480) 656-8315
jody@e-reachcomm.com