Nanocomposite stealth radomes with frequency selective surfaces

Abstract

The stealth function of the radome (Radar + Dome) is to transmit or reflect the EM (electromagnetic) wave selectively through the radome. In this work, the stealth radome for aircrafts and warships was developed with the FSS (frequency selective surfaces), PVC foam, and nanoclay-dispersed E-glass fabric/epoxy composite. The water diffusivity of nanocomposites, which changes the stealth characteristics, was measured with respect to the contents of nanoclay. The EM transmission characteristics were measured by the free space measurement system in the X-band frequency range (8.2-12.4 GHz) with respect to the content of nanoclay. Also, the flexural strength of the sandwich Construction composed of the nanocomposite, PVC foam, and FCCL (flexible copper clad laminate) was measured by the 3-point bending test. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.