Request for Information (RFI) on Biologically-Derived Materials for Transient Propulsion Systems

The Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity (IARPA) is seeking information on biologically-derived materials for transient propulsion systems. The goal is to develop materials that can maintain operational performance before undergoing controlled degradation, minimizing environmental residue. The RFI focuses on propulsion components such as turbines, engines, motors, and associated elements. Respondents are asked to address questions on current state-of-the-art biologically-derived materials, their performance limitations, and potential pathways for development. The ideal materials should have high-performance mechanical properties, controlled degradation pathways, and be compatible with combustion environments or electromagnetic fields. Some key areas of interest include: • Biologically-derived materials with high-performance mechanical properties • Controlled degradation pathways beyond UV-initiated or water-initiated mechanisms • Materials compatible with combustion environments or electromagnetic fields • Scalable manufacturing approaches for bio-derived propulsion components • Testing protocols and performance metrics for validating bio-derived propulsion components