Framework for Developing the first HDCNS-Composite Military Grade Solar Electric Skateboards

Framework for Developing the first HDCNS-Composite Military Grade Solar Electric Skateboard in #MissionSkateboards 

Objective: To develop a military-grade solar electric skateboard using Hemp-Derived Carbon Nanosheets (HDCNS) composites, showcasing the material's potential for broader military applications. This framework outlines the material selection, binding agents, manufacturing process, testing, and evaluation strategies.

1. Material Selection

• Primary Material:

  • Hemp-Derived Carbon Nanosheets (HDCNS): Provides the primary structure due to its high strength, low weight, and excellent electrical conductivity.
  • Properties: High tensile strength, extreme durability, low density, conductive properties for electronics integration, UV resistance, and stealth capabilities.

• Secondary Materials:

  • Reinforcement Fibers: Options include additional hemp fibers, carbon fiber, Kevlar, or graphene-reinforced fibers to enhance the mechanical properties.
  • Conductive Layers: Integrate thin layers of conductive materials (e.g., copper mesh or conductive inks) for electronic shielding or power distribution.

2. Binding Materials and Resins

• Epoxy Resins:

  • Standard Epoxy: Known for strong adhesion, mechanical properties, and chemical resistance. Commonly used in aerospace and automotive composites.
  • High-Temperature Epoxy: Enhanced performance under extreme temperatures; suitable for military applications.

• Alternative Resins:

  • Bio-Based Epoxy Resins: Environmentally friendly options derived from plant-based sources, aligning with sustainability goals. Can be tuned for specific mechanical and thermal properties.
  • Polyurethane Resins: Offers flexibility, impact resistance, and excellent bonding to HDCNS composites, with good weather and abrasion resistance.
  • Cyanate Ester Resins: High thermal stability and excellent dielectric properties make this suitable for electronics embedded in military applications.
  • Phenolic Resins: Known for excellent fire, smoke, and toxicity (FST) resistance, making it ideal for high-risk military environments.

• Experimental Binding Agents:

  • Nanoparticle-Enhanced Resins: Incorporate nanoparticles (e.g., silica, alumina) to improve the toughness, strength, and thermal conductivity of the composites.
  • Ionic Liquid-Based Resins: Emerging class of binding materials offering tunable properties and enhanced electrical conductivity for embedded electronics.
  • Graphene Oxide Dispersions: Offers exceptional bonding strength and thermal/electrical conductivity; can be used for ultra-light and strong coatings.

3. Manufacturing Process

• Composite Layering:

  • Layup Process: Use a hand layup, vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM), or automated fiber placement (AFP) to create multi-layer composites of HDCNS.
  • Vacuum Bagging: To ensure even distribution of the resin and remove excess air, improving composite strength.
  • Autoclave Curing: Utilize autoclave systems to apply heat and pressure, resulting in a stronger, void-free composite structure.

• Solar Integration:

  • Solar Cell Embedding: Integrate thin, flexible solar cells directly into the composite layers to maintain strength and provide sustainable energy.
  • Wiring and Connectors: Use lightweight, military-grade connectors that are shielded and weatherproof to link solar cells to the power management system.

• Supercapacitor Integration:

  • HDCNS Supercapacitors: Embed supercapacitors within the composite layers to store energy, allowing rapid charging and discharging cycles, essential for dynamic military scenarios.

4. Testing and Evaluation

• Mechanical Testing:

  • Impact and Drop Tests: Assess the board’s ability to withstand significant impacts typical of combat scenarios.
  • Load-Bearing Tests: Determine the maximum weight capacity, ensuring stability and safety under heavy military gear loads.

• Electrical Performance:

  • Solar Efficiency Testing: Evaluate the skateboard's ability to harness solar energy effectively under various lighting conditions.
  • Power Management: Ensure that the HDCNS supercapacitors are efficiently managing energy flow, with quick charge/discharge cycles.

• Environmental Testing:

  • Extreme Temperature: Test performance under varying temperatures, from freezing to desert conditions.
  • Moisture and UV Resistance: Evaluate the board's resilience against water ingress, humidity, and prolonged sun exposure.

• Stealth Capability Assessment:

  • Radar Cross-Section (RCS) Testing: Measure the skateboard’s stealth characteristics to ensure low detectability by radar systems.

5. Prototyping and Iteration

• Prototype Creation: Develop a series of prototypes using different combinations of resins, fibers, and HDCNS layering techniques.
• Feedback Loop: Incorporate feedback from military testers to refine design elements, enhance functionality, and address any identified weaknesses.
• Final Validation: Conduct comprehensive testing in real-world military scenarios to finalize the design for production.

6. Production and Scaling

• Production Scaling: Develop a scalable production line for HDCNS composites, ensuring consistent quality and efficient manufacturing processes.
• Supply Chain Establishment: Secure suppliers for HDCNS, binding materials, and additional components to support mass production.

7. Presentation to NATO and Canadian Ministry of Defense

• Demonstration Events: Host live demonstrations to showcase the skateboard’s capabilities, emphasizing its potential as a foundational technology for future military applications.
• Documentation: Prepare detailed technical reports, performance data, and case studies to support adoption within NATO and Canadian defense sectors.

This framework sets the stage for #MissionSkateboard, propelling HDCNS composites into the forefront of military innovation and paving the way for the next generation of advanced, sustainable defense technologies.