Spectro Scientific Wins Innovation Research Award

Spectro Scientific recently earned a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II award totaling $750,000 for its work in re-evaluating the Joint Oil Analysis Program (JOAP) that consolidates and coordinates the oil analysis programs of the U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force.

The U.S. Small Business Administration presents the SBIR award to promote high-tech innovation in the fulfillment of specific research and development needs. The contract awarded to Spectro Scientific for Phase II efforts extends into 2016.

Spectro Scientific undertook the re-evaluation effort with the aim of improving the JOAP by modifying processes and/or equipment to create more effective oil analysis. The JOAP was formed following the U.S. Bureau of Naval Weapons' research into oil analysis as a tool to indicate and predict wear of machine components. The program has resulted in significant improvements in equipment and engine life as well as maintenance efficiency, with positive effects on operational readiness and economy of the military.

Based on its worldwide expertise in comprehensive, immediate analysis of in-service lubricants, Spectro Scientific proposed a three-phase approach to improving JOAP. The proposals involved developing advanced oil analysis methods including frequency and type of sampling; creating prototype equipment for collection and analysis; and expanding the program to include a multitude of Army, Navy, Coast Guard and Air Force engines and other equipment, as well as exploring commercial applications such as commercial aircraft and large-scale marine engines.

"Spectro Scientific has proposed new processes and technology that can be easily deployed in the field to give military maintenance personnel critical information without waiting for samples to be sent to a laboratory," said Brian Mitchell, Spectro Scientific president and CEO. "Spectro Scientific has worked closely with the JOAP organization for over 20 years, and we are grateful for this SBIR award. We are even more gratified to be able to support the readiness and efficiency of our nation's military efforts."

For more information, visit www.spectrosci.com.