Nanotechnology Enabled, Lightweight EMI Shielding Fabrics for use with Soft Walled Shelters

This Phase II proposal addresses a current need relevant to the US military: a lightweight and durable electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI) shielding fabric, with EMI/RFI shielding across a wide frequency range. To address this statement of need, a scale-up demonstration/validation program is proposed, based upon the previous Phase I results and on-going proprietary developments by the applicant using a cost-effective electrosynthesis of nanostructured alloys for electromagnetic shielding (Nanovate EM). Phase II is intended to use the material developed in Phase I to produce a full scale 3D prototype of Nanovate EM shielding fabric to be incorporated as a liner in a soft walled shelter. The full scale system will also address key factors in maintaining an effective shield, such as continuity of conductivity along the seams, in corners, and around fenestration. The main technical objectives of the proposed Phase II program are to: (1) construct and demonstrate/validate a system that is capable of continuously coating metalized fabrics with Nanovate EM, (2) validate and where required improve upon the fabric"s physical performance, (3) fabricate a full-scale 3D prototype of the shielding for a soft walled shelter using the Nanovate EM shielding fabric liner, and (4) validate that the fabric"s EMI/RFI shielding performance meets the specified requirements.