Artificial Dielectrics for High Power Microwave Applications

The scientific feasibility of fabricating lightweight artificial dielectric (AD) materials was demonstrated in the Phase I effort. The electrical performance of the AD materials was not optimal. Time constraints necessitated using readily availablematerials and it was known a priori that these materials would not offer the best performance. However, it was demonstrated that an AD material could be fabricated that would offer the same index of refraction as high density polyethylene and exhibit onesixth its weight.The overall objective of the Phase II effort is to further develop the theory, fabrication, and characterization methods outlined in Phase I to provide a thoroughly characterized, high-performance, lightweight, and low loss AD material for use in narrowband and ultra wideband high power microwave lens designs. This effort will focus mainly on the selection, optimization, and characterization of those materials and fillers best suited for use in composite AD materials. Additional work will be performedto explore the theory and fabrication of isorefractive materials, implement a process for mass production of lenses, improve time domain diagnostics, and evaluate material properties. The effort will culminate in using AD materials to fabricate lenses andimpulse radiating antennas as deliverables.