RF Polymers for Integrated Sensors

Polymer composites have had an important role in radio frequency (RF), microwave, and millimeter-wave (mm-wave) engineering. These materials offer good mechanical and electrical properties. However, the excellent properties of conventional polymercomposites are not ideal for use at RF frequencies. Recent innovations in polymer composite engineering has provided the possibility for engineered materials with tailored mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties.The goal of this proposed research project is the investigation of potential polymer composites that exhibit magnetic properties and to find specific applications in integrated RF apertures. Computational electromagnetic tools will be adapted for thiseffort and exercised to determine electrical properties for an example aperture and an extensive literature search will be conducted concerning the modification of electrical and especially magnetic properties. The MRC team has expertise in all aspects ofthe proposed project including military RF applications, computational electromagnetics, composite polymer engineering, and microwave-grade ferromagnetic materials.In the proposed Phase I effort, the MRC team will identify optimal polymer and magnetic materials. In addition, optimal material properties will be defined, and a proof-of-concept research program including coupon fabrication, property testing, andaperture design/fabrication/testing will be proposed for Phase II. A new class of integrated apertures using ferrite loaded composite materials will have many applications in both military and commercial communications, wireless, and RF systems. Sharedapertures, wideband applications, as well as new types of low cost, lightweight antennas with low physical or conformal profile have a large potential market in wireless network environment. MRC will vigorously pursue all potential applications of theantenna and systems technologies resulting from a successful result of the proposed research.