Satellite Structures with Engineered or Variable Electomagnetic Properties

A novel methodology is proposed for the integration of nanomaterials into structural composite materials, to engineer multi-spectrum (microwave, IR, and optical) electromagnetic properties.   The process is general and a wide range of EM properties can be achieved, such as absorption, reflection, switchable properties, etc.  It is also possible to engineer multiple properties in the same structure by selecting appropriate fillers and their locations in the structural materials.   This proposal is based on our successful concept demonstration in Phase I where we found structural integrity as well as multifunction EM properties of microwave absorption and band stop filter.   BENEFITS: This proposed methodology enables the integration of nanomaterials into continuous fiber structural composite materials for multifunctional characteristics. The use of nanoparticles of various forms (spheres, flakes, fibers etc) and thin films provides a wide range of property characteristics that can be integrated into a typical composite structure. This will enable application of multifunctional structures from microwave to UV regimes and provide the materials/structural designer with the necessary tools for platform implementation. Potential applications are primarily driven by Aerospace (military and commercial) and Defense markets.