Low-observable radomes composed of composite sandwich constructions and frequency selective surfaces

Abstract

In this work, low-observable stealth radomes composed of composite sandwich constructions and FSS (Frequency Selective Surfaces) were developed for selective wave transmission and reflection characteristics. The FSS was composed of a copper foil and a polyimide film. The sandwich constructions were composed of plain weave fabric E-glass/epoxy composites and PVC foams, which protect the radar antenna in the radome from external loads. The electromagnetic transmission characteristics of the low-observable radome wall were numerically calculated with 3-dimensional electromagnetic analysis software, and compared with the measured results by the free space measurement system. Also the mechanical properties of the sandwich constructions were investigated. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.