25016 – DefenseTech Expeditionary Corrosion Kit (D.T.E.C.K.)

DefenseTech Expeditionary Corrosion Kit (D.T.E.C.K.)

Surface Preparation and Corrosion Control

An inevitable enemy threatens fleet performance and longevity—corrosion. It costs the Department of Defense (DOD) over $20 billion in military assets annually. Amid federal budget reductions, identifying efficient and cost-effective maintenance solutions is imperative for the DOD (DAU, 2024). The agency is also pressured to adopt eco-friendly cleaning solutions under an executive order aiming for net-zero emissions from federal procurement by 2050 (House, 2021).

Despite safety and environmental risks, outdated abrasive blasting methods still dominate the defense industry. Sandblasting alone generates over 1.75 million tons of hazardous waste annually and increases the risk of silicosis (USDHHS, 2020).

The DefenseTech Expeditionary Corrosion Kit (D.T.E.C.K.) provides two TAA-compliant, TRL 9 proven laser systems – DTMF-1020 and DTMF-4020 – housed within an A/C-powered, mobile, and expeditionary container. DTMF-1020 is a high-precision, handheld laser tool for speedy polishing, meticulous cleaning, and top-layer coating removal needs. The DTMF4020 is a Class I enclosed laser system with no additional PPE required. The D.T.E.C.K. ensures rapid, safe, and effective surface maintenance in both field and depot-level environments, coming equipped with power outlets, integrated storage, generator, fume extractor, air compressor, and other materials.

By adopting laser technology, the DOD can significantly reduce expenses associated with surface prep and corrosion control. Our laser systems don’t damage the underlying substrate, increasing equipment longevity and decreasing aircraft downtime. They enhance CTMA Technology Competition Entry Abstract Fonon Technologies the safety of military personnel and comply with ESG regulations aligning with DOD’s sustainability goals.

While transitioning to laser-based corrosion removal poses logistical challenges, the D.T.E.C.K. concept offers a low-friction, widely applicable solution to all service branches of the military and the DLA. The U.S. Navy and USMC have already demonstrated confidence in our systems by placing a second order this year, proving their effectiveness and compatibility with existing defense operations. Military personnel are also adamantly familiar with containers, given they are widely used in the military for the efficient
movement of supplies and mandatory equipment. Containers are often even repurposed as lodging, making the D.T.E.C.K., a viable solution for DOD maintenance needs.

Corrosion Prevention and Control for Military Systems and Equipment | DAU (2024). https://www.dau.edu/tools/corrosion-prevention-and-control-planning-guidebookmilitary-systems-and-equipment

House, T. W. (2021). FACT SHEET: President Biden Signs Executive Order Catalyzing America’s Clean Energy Economy Through Federal Sustainability | The White House. https://bidenwhitehouse.archives.gov/briefing-room/USDHHS (2020). NTP Technical Report on the toxicity studies of abrasive blasting agents.

https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/ntp/htdocs/st_rpts/tox091_508.pdf