Non-Metallic Conductive Material for ESD/EMI Applications

Nanocomp proposes to develop a clear understanding of the relationship between the EMI and ESD parameters of BMI (5250-4) and Epoxy (977-3) prepregged very large, ~4 foot by 8 foot panels or rolls. These panels are formed from DWCNT and SWCNT sheets bonded to graphite epoxy or to S glass using a commercial autoclave process. In particular we propose to determine the relationship between insertion loss, in a broad frequency range, of fully composited and optimized panels, and laboratory measurements of sheet material of various areal densities up to 20 g/m2. Sample panels, measured by our aerospace partner, previously produced from our non-prepregged sheets, suggested EMI behavior far exceeding a base material currently used in a commercial application. We suggest that this prepregged material be eventually produced in rolls. To do this we have formed a relationship with a commercial firm expert in the pre-impregnation process. Further we propose to commercially test, for the first time, a proprietary liquid treatment process that has demonstrated very large conductivity increases in the laboratory but has yet to be tested for insertion loss or other EMI/ESD practical tests. BENEFIT: The application of CNT sheet material to replace existing nickel-copper-nickel mesh not only provides a much lighter material, about 5 times, but also offers much better EMI performance. In addition to the weight and performance advantages the material provided by Nanocomp is completely free of carcinogenic nickel or cobalt. The completion of the pre-impregnation process for the BMI and Epoxies of choice will provide a drop-in replacement material that will outperform at less weight the existing base material. Additional benefits include a strength enhancement.