Airbag Technology

SRI is applying diverse technologies to improve airbags used in automobiles. Our team has developed ingredients that are environmentally benign and safe for humans and storage while allowing manufacturers to make the airbags smaller and more compact. To achieve reduced airbag size, manufacturers need ingredients that can be more completely combusted. New gas-generating polymers and crosslinking agents that increase combustion, along with environmentally safe igniters and new oxidizers, are among the SRI advances that have led to new design possibilities.

SRI's new oxidizers are also used for rocket propellants, replacing ammonium perchlorate to achieve better performance with reduced emissions and smoke trails.

Advantage
No single solution exists today to fully address the manufacturing and safety challenges facing airbag manufacturers. SRI's patented technologies address many of the most pressing needs, with several advantages:

• Environmental safety
• Thermal stability
• Improved combustion ability
• Competitive advantages for manufacturers

Opportunity
SRI has many core technology advances, including our invention of new gas generants, oxidizers and igniter technologies, for future development and commercial applications. Each area can be expanded to offer a competitive advantage for a manufacturer. SRI holds the patents for these technologies and is open to licensing the technologies to a commercial partner.

Visit the Laboratory Chemical and Engineering Processes