Multi-Functional Conductive Polymers for Broad-Frequecy Radiation Hardening Applications

Survivability countermeasures against nuclear, EMI/EMP and radar/microwave radiation are needed, particularly with the strong dependence of US defense on more complex microcircuitries incorporated in the various military components. Furthermore, theincreasing use of composites, which do not incorporate conductive elements, in electronic equipment, aerospace and other hardware requires radiation hardening. In the absence of inadequate hardening, failure of commercial and military electronics couldresult due to, for example, changes in frequency characteristics of the various components such as capacitors, resistors and inductors. Following a successful Phase I effort, we will develop in this Phase II program novel shielding materials thatencompass several materials with different electromagnetic properties at the particle level, which can be easily process in one layer into the desired shape. The materials will be engineered for specific application in agreement with our industrial andmilitary partners, and will have the capability of absorption and dissipation of electromagnetic radiation throughout a wide frequency range. Our efforts will be geared towards material optimization through extensive testing so that it meets requirementsof potential end users. Scale up efforts towards commercialization of the products will also be undertaken in this program in collaboration with our commercial partners. Low cost, easily processable and multi-functional radiation hardening materials inone single layer, that are efficient in a wide range, will be beneficial to the shielding industry in a large number of military and commercial components. Aeronautic, telecommunications, surface-mount and electronic equipment are examples of potentialmarkets for the proposed technology.