Abstract: In accordance with the invention, containers or interfaces having two surfaces 201a and 201b to be joined, and a region to be sealed, are fused by providing between the surfaces 201a and 201b a thin strip or wire of RCM 102 embedded within a fusible material 101, applying pressure 205 and igniting the RCM 102. The released energy from the ignited RCM 102 results in a melting of the fusible material 101 and subsequent bonding of the fusible material 101 upon cooling to the 101 surrounding surfaces 201a and 201b, achieving a hermetic seal there between without the use of a separate gasket component.

Abstract: Applicants have discovered new composite materials and have developed a variety of new ways of making reactive composite materials (RCMs) and methods of controlling the properties and characteristics of the materials that are pertinent to numerous new or improved applications. This patent application is directed to new and improved ways of making reactive composite materials using mechanical deformation and making such materials with controlled, predictable characteristics. This application is also directed toward useful applications of the resulting materials. In accordance with the invention, RCMs are fabricated by a series of mechanical deformation steps. In the first deformation step, an assembly of reactive layers and/or particles is plastically deformed to reduce its cross sectional area by one-half or more. This severe initial deformation substantially eliminates the tendency of deformed layers to delaminate and eliminates the necessity of using specially cleaned metal layers.

Abstract: Novel reactive composite materials and associated methods for making the same which are pertinent to numerous new or improved applications. The method for making the reactive composite materials utilizes mechanical deformation to manufacture such materials with controlled, predictable characteristics. In the first deformation step, an assembly of reactive layers and/or particles is plastically deformed to reduce its cross sectional area by one-half or more. Portions of the deformed sheets are stacked or bent into a new assembly, and the new assembly is then deformed. The steps of assembly and deformation are repeated a sufficient number of times that the resulting materials are only locally layered but have relatively uniform reaction velocity and heat generating characteristics predictable by stochastic models derived herein.

Abstract: A device and method for emitting electromagnetic radiation utilizing a reactive composite material (RCM) as an emission source. By selective modification of the reactive composite material (RCM), attributes of the emitting device, including the ability to produce specific radiation intensity levels at specific electromagnetic wavelengths, the ability to emit for a specific duration, the avoidance of dangerous reaction products, portability, geometric design flexibility, and simple, safe storage may be selected.

Abstract: A reactive composite structure having selected energetic and mechanical properties, and methods of making reactive composite structures enabling the construction of complex parts and components by machining and forming of reactive composite materials without compromising the energetic or mechanical properties of the resulting reactive composite structure.