Tunable Dielectrics for Gigahertz, Pulsed Power Applications

In this program, Agiltron proposes a novel nano-engineering approach to develop a new category of nonlinear nano-dielectrics for Gigahertz pulsed power applications. The new approach combines the cutting-edge nanomaterials development and manufacture at Agiltron and a recently developed atomic layer deposition technology. The nano-composite structure will be simulated and optimized using finite element method and Monte Carlo simulation. The proposed nanodielectrics possess defined dielectric content, uniform nano-grain structure, clean grain boundaries/interfaces, and high density. Our novel materials feature high dielectric permittivity (1000s), low loss (<0.0005), and high tenability and high breakdown strength at frequency of 800 MHz to 20 GHz. These features are unattainable from the existing materials. This Phase I will demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed approach. In Phase II, Agiltron will be able to mass produce the proposed tunable nanodielectrics at low cost. BENEFIT: Tunable dielectric materials can be used for GHz transmission applications, such as rapid switching, GHz filters, and phased-array technology. Military applications include directed energy weapons, ultra wide band radar, voltage controlled oscillators, phased array antennas, tunable filters and phase shifters. Commercial applications comprise voltage controlled oscillators, tunable filters, phase shifters, compact, tunable (narrowband and wide band) microwave devices, communications and cellular telephones.