Affordable Electro-Magnetic Interference (EMI) Grid Application

In this document, Nano-Terra proposes to develop a repeatable, low-cost method for the application of a rectangular grid with very small feature sizes to a concave surface in order to protect sensitive missile systems from electromagnetic interference. To accomplish this goal, Nano-Terra will apply its proprietary technology in Soft Lithography to develop a flexible stamp conformal to the dome to be patterned. This stamp will have features that define the grid (squares 15 x 15 mils with a line width of 1 mil or less) and, in one line of development, will be used to micro-contact print an etchant onto the inside surface of the dome, which has a thin gold layer deposited upon it. The gold will be etched from the dome except in the grid pattern defined by the inverse of the stamp. In phase I, we will develop a process for making the appropriate stamp and test prototype domes made from this stamp. In phase II, we will refine the method for developing a stamp and manufacturing patterned domes at low cost. In phase III, we will license the technology to an experienced manufacturer to supply the military with patterned domes for missile applications.