A Naval Sea Systems Command warfare center in Maryland has partnered with U.K.-based Thermal Compaction Group to create a system for processing shipboard-generated waste for the U.S. Navy.
The Naval Surface Warfare Center's Carderock Division said Tuesday it wants to help build the service branch's next-generation feed plastic waste processor through a cooperative research and development agreement with TCG.
Under the CRADA, both parties will aim to produce a PWP prototype and further develop the company's Massmelt thermal screw compaction technology for potential commercial use.
The military service will own the engineering drawings and software of the resulting system as part of the agreement signed by Capt. Todd Hutchison, commanding officer of NSWCCD
Collaborative efforts will include the development of initial testing plans, technical knowledge sharing, test data analysis and engineering work to address potential system risks and performance issues.
Peter Cheung, NSWCCD's principal investigator in the CRADA, said NAVSEA approved the procurement of TCG's product after the Carderock division performed tests and determined the technology has the potential to address solid waste management requirements at the Navy.
Cheung added the team began testing an updated Massmelt system and aims to complete the new product within a two-year period.
The surface warfare center will be responsible for the TCG prototype laboratory test, Massmelt modifications and the provision of data from the assessment and development phases.
The company agreed to provide technical manuals, installation drawings and training documents to Carderock.