Boeing Invests in Nanotechnology Applications Firm, Gamma Alloys

Boeing has announced its investment in Gamma Alloys, a developer of advanced metal-matrix composites and nanotechnogy based material for use in aerospace, automotive and other industries.

"With funding from Boeing, we will explore compelling applications across demanding industries such as aerospace while accelerating our nanoparticle material development and the full-scale industrialization of our manufacturing processes," said Gamma Alloys CEO Mark Sommer.

California-based Gamma Alloys, founded in 2008, is pursuing breakthroughs in nano-reinforced aluminum alloys, where the aluminum is reinforced with microscopic particles, or nanoparticles. These alloys provide increased stiffness, improved wear resistance, and greater strength than current materials across a wider range of temperatures.

This investment by Boeing HorizonX Ventures, which was established earlier this year, is its first in advanced materials and machining development and applications.

"The wear, strength, durability and machining characteristics of Gamma's materials have the opportunity to further reduce the weight of our products," said Steve Nordlund, vice president of Boeing HorizonX. "The traction that Gamma Alloys has gained in automotive, energy and aerospace reinforces our confidence that Gamma has a unique set of materials."

The Boeing HorizonX Ventures portfolio includes investments in autonomous systems technology, wearable enabled technologies, augmented reality systems, hybrid-electric propulsion and artificial intelligence.