CPS Technologies Awarded $1.1 Million DOE Contract for Radiation Shielding
Key Insights
CPS Technologies Corp. secures a $1.1 million Phase II SBIR contract from the U.S. Department of Energy for developing modular radiation shielding.
The 24-month project aims to optimize lightweight materials effective against gamma and neutron radiation for microreactor transportation and use.
Building on successful Phase I results, Phase II will focus on scaling manufacturing processes for commercialization, with NETCO as a subcontractor.
CPS Technologies Corporation (search) (NASDAQ:CPSH) has been awarded a $1.1 million Phase II SBIR contract from the U.S. Department of Energy to advance its work on "Modular Radiation Shielding for Transportation and Use of Microreactors." The 24-month project will be led by materials scientist Matthew Karnick, who also led the successful Phase I effort.
The project aims to develop lightweight, modular radiation shielding capable of blocking both gamma and neutron radiation. This technology is crucial for the safe transportation and operation of microreactors, which are gaining traction as a potential solution for distributed power generation.
Phase I Success and Phase II Goals
During Phase I, CPS successfully developed and tested the fundamental shielding technology. Phase II will focus on optimizing the materials and scaling up manufacturing processes for commercialization. NETCO, a division of Curtiss-Wright Nuclear (search), will serve as a subcontractor, providing expertise in radiation testing.
"For the second time since June, we have received a Phase II SBIR award. This is great recognition for our team, as it acknowledges our ability to develop and deliver novel yet practical solutions in response to well-defined requirements," said Brian Mackey, President & CEO of CPS. "This project will enable us to expand our product portfolio and pursue a broader range of commercial opportunities."
Patent and Commercialization
CPS filed a provisional patent application in July 2024 covering the novel designs developed during Phase I. The company is exploring commercial opportunities for both mobile and stationary applications of the shielding technology. With this new award and the Phase II SBIR contract received from the US Navy in June, CPS's SBIR funding in recent years now exceeds $3 million.
About CPS Technologies
CPS Technologies is a leader in producing high-performance materials solutions. Their products are used in various applications, including electric trains, wind turbines, hybrid and electric vehicles, Navy ships, and 5G infrastructure. The company is committed to innovation and supporting the transition to clean energy.