SBIR / STTR #DTR27TZ02-NV003

DTRA R&D and prototype development for compact pulsed X-ray capacitors

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency is seeking research and prototype development for ultra-compact, high-energy-density capacitors used in portable pulsed-field X-ray generators. - Buyer: Department of War, Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), DTRA SBIR/STTR Program. - OEMs and vendors: No OEMs, manufacturers, or vendors are named in the opportunity. - Requested products: - 10 prototype capacitors for Phase II Year 1 testing, validation, and refinement. - Up to 10 compliant prototype capacitors for delivery to DTRA in Phase II Year 2. - No part numbers are specified. - Technical targets: Capacitors no larger than 2 × 1 × 0.5 inches, rated at 100 kV and 2 nF, with 80% voltage-reversal tolerance and a service life exceeding 100,000 cycles. Voltage and voltage-reversal performance are top priorities. - R&D services: Phase I design selection, modeling, material testing, proof-of-principle fabrication, and a scalable manufacturing plan; Phase II process execution, optimization, and scale-up toward Technology Readiness Level 5; optional Phase III manufacturing scale-up. - Funding and performance: Phase I is generally limited to $250,000 and 7 months; Phase II is limited to 24 months and $1.5 million. Phase III is optional. - Notable requirement: The capacitor technology is subject to ITAR or EAR export controls.

Description

The solicitation seeks proposals under the STTR program for compact high energy density capacitors for pulsed field X-ray generators. It is issued by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency as part of the DoW STTR 2027 BAA, Release 2. The topic is in pre-release status, and proposals are submitted through the DoW SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP). The source lists a response deadline of December 7, 2026; the attached preface separately lists the Release 2 close date as January 6, 2026.

View original listing