Broadband LO NDE Sensor Technology (BLONDE)

The purpose of this project is to combine two developing technologies, near field microwave sensors and short pulse microwave generation/detection, into a compact, real-time tool for test and evaluation of low observable materials and structures. This toolis critical to field maintenance of stealth vehicles, potentially affecting the health and safety of both the vehicle and its occupants. For the last three years, OptoMetrix has been working with the Boeing Company to develop a free-space broadbandmicrowave spectrometer for use on stealth vehicles. The core technology of this instrument is the generation and detection of short (10's of picosecond) microwave pulses, which provides a wide bandwidth in a simple, compact package. At the same time, theBoeing Company was developing near field microwave probes for narrow band interrogation of material properties. The combination of these two technologies for producing a broadband, near field tool promises to meet or exceed the demands of fieldmaintainability and thereby minimize the risks to personnel and equipment.Tool for real-time evaluation of low observable material and structures.Tool for real-time evaluation of metal corrosion under paint or other layered materials.Tool for real-time evaluation of voids and defects in composite materials.