Lightweight Radar Absorbing Materials using Functionalized Binders in Aqueous Media

"Current radar absorbing materials (RAMs) are heavy and require hazardous materials for processing. Development of a lighter weight binder with a suitable morphology, combined with environmentally friendly solvents to produce RAMs would offer significantadvantages in manufacturing and in the field. As in any functional filled polymer, interaction between the different components is a must. The presence of inactive materials or induced porosity lessens the overall efficacy. In other words, a functionalblend, preferably an interpenetrating network would be the ideal material. Fractal Systems, in collaboration with our aerospace partners, proposes to continue optimization of the resin formulations by manipulation of the polymeric binder and the modifiedRAM filler. This effort will take the successes achieved in Phase I, based on functionalization of the components, from material design and characterization to field use in Phase II and beyond. Our aerospace partners will provide direct input and willactively participate by assisting with the required testing of viable formulations. Our approach is based on the results obtained thus far. The low cost and simple techniques used in the new processes, are very likely to result in viable lighter,non-hazardous RAMs that will qualify for airborne, ground or naval-based applications."