Reduced Moisture vapor transmission coatings for Radomes

Modern technology has developed materials that are highly durable and can resist a harsh environment, but one of the most damaging chemicals for electrical components is moisture. Even very low levels of water vapor can be fatal to sensitive equipment, particularly for guidance systems in missiles. The structural components of radomes are either porous fused silica or a variety of polymer matrix composites with glass fibers. The materials provide a level of protection from the environment, but are not adequate by themselves in preventing moisture vapor transmission. Several commercial coatings exist today to mitigate moisture, but these too are insufficient in providing the level of protection and length of service required. A need exists for a coating that will provide moisture barrier performance of 0.02g/m2/day or lower, thermal cycling resistance and resistance to abrasion and scratches during incidental handling of missiles for a period of 10 years. The new hybrid coatings will be both highly resistant to water vapor transmission and abrasion and scratch resistant.