RF Transparent Optically Tailorable Appliques

"This SBIR Phase II proposal deals with the development and production ofRF transparent optically tailorable appliqu¿s for Navy Applications. Inthe Phase I work, Sigma Technologies produced different types ofappliqu¿s to cover a variety of signature reduction applications withparticular focus on RF transparency, and durability under a wide rangeof environmental conditions. The Phase II program will focus in thescale up and production of at least two different appliqu¿ designs, thatutilize low cost materials and are produced using high speed coatingtechniques. A higher cost very low dielectric constant appliqu¿ mayalso be produced to meet some lower volume high performancerequirements. Large are samples will be also be produced and deliveredto the customer for further evaluation. The phase II program isdesigned to scale up the process, evaluate performance under variousapplication conditions, and determine product cost. By the end of thiswork Sigma will be in a position to accept orders for such appliqu¿system in pilot production quantities.BENEFITS: Sigma has in place adequate production capacity to satisfy most shortterm needs that the Navy may have. We do not expect direct use of thiswork to commercial applications, however, certain parts of thedevelopment have significant commercial applications. For example,appliques and paints.Commercial applications for specialty pigments have very high potential.There is a need for new pai