Developing Revolutionary Direct-to-Formulation Technologies
Every modern defense platform — from fighter aircraft and combat vehicles to naval vessels and communication equipment — relies on specialty chemicals, such as high-performance coatings and composite polymers. However, the complex, multi-step supply chains required to produce these materials have largely moved overseas, leaving critical national security systems vulnerable to disruption.
The DARPA Laguna program aims to restore U.S. materials dominance by developing revolutionary direct-to-formulation technologies. By converging innovative bio-inspired enzymatic synthesis, advanced polymer chemistry, and multi-property modeling, Laguna transforms simple, domestically abundant raw materials — such as agricultural sugars, ethylene, and simple aromatics — directly into next-generation specialty chemicals and formulated mixtures.
Bypassing decades of costly, multi-stage separation and refining processes, Laguna delivers performance-advantaged materials that enhance platform durability, reduce maintenance timelines, and fortify a resilient domestic manufacturing base for national security.
