Nonmetallic Compliant Conductive Materials for Airframe Electrical Continuity

Eikos Inc. successfully demonstrated the use of carbon nanotube additives to polymer based systems, Nanoshield¿, to tailor electrical conductivity and provide electromagnetic shielding. In Phase I, Eikos used its Nanoshield¿ technology to provide 40 dB EMIshielding in a very low resistivity (<10 Ohm/sq) thin coatings on a glass/epoxy composite panels. Additionally, conductive gaskets and composite interlaminar conductive structures were demonstrated utilizing the same technology. The small amounts of carbonnanotubes required for Nanoshield¿ have minimal effects on base materail properties and cost unlike the standard metallic fillers employed today. The need for high shear strength compliant polymer systems which can provide electrical continuity isparamount for effective airframe deign. In Phase II Eikos Inc. will advance the development of this technology by working closely with Sikorsky Helicopter to apply this coating technology to meet three areas identified for application on the ComancheHelicopter. All three represent opportunities to reduce weight, increase durability, and reduce production and maintenance cost. Specifically the Phase II program will utilizes the technology demonstrated in Phase I to: 1) replace copper mesh in embeddedground plan composite panels, 2) replace metallic filled adhesives and gaskets sealing access panels throughout the fuselage. Successful implementation of this technology will result in a new generation of conductive materials capable of disruptingcurrent conductive materials used in consumer electronic like cell phone pagers, and PDA. Other areas for insertion are circuit board ground planes, conductive backplanes on flexible displays, and in the future, flexible circuit.