Non-Resonant Frequency Selective Surfaces for High Power Applications

Prime Research LC and the University of Central Florida propose the development of a novel class of non-resonant frequency selective surfaces (NREFSSs) for high power operation.  The devices use little or no metals and prevent localized high field intensities by avoiding resonance.  The structures themselves will be much smaller than the free space wavelength and thickness of the substrates will be at least one order of magnitude smaller than can be achieved using conventional approaches.  Two topologies will be investigated: (1) metallo-dielectric structures, and (2) all-dielectric structures.  The technology is easily extended to lower frequency bands due their extremely small size relative to the free space wavelength.  The design methodologies developed in this effort will provide the ability to synthesize any desired frequency response.  The FSS itself will provide a highly stable frequency response that is essentially insensitive to angle of incidence and polarization of the applied wave allowing the structures to possess a field-of-view of +/- 70 degrees.  Phase I will design and test NREFSSs at low power.  Phase II will include Lockheed Martin as a partner and perform high power testing at their facilities. BENEFIT: The frequency selective surfaces (FSSs) developed in this effort will have an extraordinary capability for handling high power due to their non-resonant behavior and be able to withstand 100 ns electromagnetic pulses at least 1 MW/cm^2 in field strength.  This will enable systems to be developed that protect military and commercial aerospace vehicles from electromagnetic pulse attacks.  Further, the technology can be applied to engineer the radar cross section of high power radomes and to protect antenna systems from strong electromagnetic interference.  The proposed technology is highly versatile and can be applied across an enormous span of wavelength bands.