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Frequently Asked Questions What is unique about MMI? We have developed unique technology that gives us the capability to engineer and tailor advanced materials and fabricate high performance parts for the next millennium. Many of these parts will replace conventional materials and significantly expand the capabilities of the next generation of products. Some of these materials will also facilitate miniaturization. What do we do best? Our primary strength and expertise is in the area of powder metallurgy and coatings technologies. We MAKE powders and FABRICATE engineering shapes using powders. With support from the SBIR program, MMI has developed several novel techniques to synthesize nanomaterials - surface area is greater than the volume – (typical examples are dust and talcum powder that float in air) of a wide range of metallic, intermetallic and ceramic powders. What are the applications for nanopowders? There are numerous markets for nanopowders that has been estimated to be 20 billion dollars worldwide by 2005 (Business Communications Inc). Some of these include; cosmetics, pigments for paints, cellular antennas, brazing alloys, filters and membranes, magnetic devices, cellular antennas (flexible), card readers, read write heads, sensors – (15 billion dollars in the US alone in 2000 (Sensors magazine) - gas, liquid, motion, pressure, chemical, biomedical), inks, thin films – (microelectronics – (MEMS/flat panels) and optics), nozzles, wear resistant coatings, weapons, decorative applications, battery and fuel cell electrodes, switches, relays, capacitors, seals, bearings, thermal management, chemomechanical polishing, automotive, textile and aerospace components. Why should anybody buy nanopowders or nanostructured components? Nanopowders are the building blocks for the next generation of devices and are a new class of engineered materials. Microelectronics in particular will need to use such engineered materials to produce high performance, faster response with superior characteristics and reproducibility. The use of nanopowders can significantly help in miniaturization of current products. To retain the benefits of the nanostructured materials, components have to be fabricated into various shapes/sizes using fast processing methods. Who is currently investing in this technology and what is the competition? The US government is currently spending at least 700 million dollars per year in funding for nanomaterials research through the National Nanotechnology Initiative especially in microelectronics (MEMS) and sensors. This funding is primarily in small businesses, national labs and universities. The funding for this field is expected to continue for the next 5-7 years due to the generic and vast implications for the technology and its use in numerous commercial products. Several private companies and venture groups have invested in nanomaterials for specific products. What is our objective? Our objective is to dominate the market for advanced engineered materials with our equipment and license/joint venture the technologies on a worldwide basis. MMI will entertain joint ventures or licenses for any of its 8 patents issued so far.
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