Multilayer Nanocomposites for Selective Radiofrequency and Microwave Frequency Shielding and Efficient Band Pass Filters

ABSTRACT: The development of robust, ultra-light weight, low-cost electrically tunable nanocomposites with the ability to efficiently absorb the electromagnetic radiation in strategic bands in the RF and microwave region is anticipated to provide valuable armor for electronic devices that suffer from electromagnetic interference. In this proposal, we demonstrate a combined nanotechnology, chemistry, and biotechnology approach to provide a materials solution to overcome the existing barriers with electromagnetic shielding. Nanocomposites with compositional and thickness control involving nanomaterials and amorphous matrices with highly tunable properties will allow for utilization in selective RF shielding applications. The materials and characterization advances made in the Phase I of this SBIR proposal will be seminal towards developing new electromagnetic radiation shielding materials know-how for a range of strategic DoD missions and expansion of strategic RF component testing in Phase II. The advances made under this proposal will be crucial for widespread utilization and commercialization activities in both electromagnetic shielding and functional bio-nanocomposite materials. The high quality materials developed as a major part of this proposal are anticipated to provide effective blocking and selective response (filters) to RF and microwaves up to 110 GHz. BENEFIT: The ability to control the response in the RF regime and concomitant shielding of defense critical devices (circuits and components), as well as enhanced communication by blocking unwanted radio frequencies while allowing necessary signals is anticipated to play a vital role in the advancement of Air Force applications. The development of multifunctional, composite thin film materials with large dielectric (nonconducting) response, high thermal conductivity, low-cost and high throughput, that are also robust and capable of being conformally coated onto various device platforms with are expected to have immense commercial potential impacting numerous industrial applications such as low-loss dielectric materials for energy storage devices (e.g., capacitors), materials for thermal management in numerous electronic and opto-electronic devices, and magnetic materials for data storage. Mainly, our goals will be enhance new materials knowhow to enable large scale production capabilities and create an initial niche market for developing radio frequency filters, EM shields, etc. for the enhancing the existing and future capabilities for the Department of Defense, specifically for various Air Force activities with stringent and strategic communication demands. The major impact of the proposed activities will lead to improved capabilities for Air Force C4ISR systems.