SBIR Award for Advanced Body Armor Inspection Technology
Wesley Chapel, Florida — June 29, 2025
Ultrasonic Technologies, Inc. (UST) has been awarded a research and development contract through the U.S. Department of Defense Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program to develop an innovative inspection method based on its proprietary Resonance Ultrasonic Vibrations (RUV) technology. The system is designed to detect cracks, internal defects, and delamination in ceramic-based body armor plates used for personal protection.
Advancing Non-Destructive Testing for Armor Systems
The objective of this SBIR project is to improve the structural reliability and mechanical performance of both newly manufactured and in-service armor plates. By enabling rapid, non-destructive inspection, the RUV system supports:
- Early defect detection
- Improved quality assurance
- Reduced risk of field failure
- High-throughput screening for large inventories
This capability is particularly important for defense and security applications requiring reliable protective equipment.
Phase I Technical Validation
During Phase I, UST successfully demonstrated the feasibility of its RUV inspection concept through comprehensive in-house experimental testing. The team designed, manufactured, and validated a laboratory prototype system that confirmed the technology’s effectiveness in identifying structural anomalies in ceramic armor materials.
Phase II Development and Deployment
Phase II will focus on further development of hardware and operational software, culminating in installation of a prototype system at a United States Marine Corps depot for qualification testing and high-volume inspection. This step will advance the technology toward operational deployment and broader commercialization.
Executive Statement
Dr. Sergei Ostapenko, President and CEO of UST, stated:
“We are honored to receive this prestigious SBIR award. Our Resonance Ultrasonic Vibrations technology represents a significant advancement in non-destructive evaluation for critical materials. With support from U.S. government seed funding, our systems are already deployed in manufacturing environments for solar cells, fuel cells, and advanced ceramics.”
About Ultrasonic Technologies
Ultrasonic Technologies is a Florida-based research, development, and manufacturing company specializing in ultrasonic inspection, quality control, and process monitoring systems for advanced materials and high-reliability industries.
For reference: https://www.sbir.gov/awards/218222