Low Weight, Durable, Radar Absorbing Paints for Aircraft Structures

Triton Systems proposes to develop novel, durable, low weight radar absorbing paints that will reduce the Radar signature of aircraft. Our approach will significantly reduce the weight of ferromagnetic particle/pigment-based paints via novel binderadditives to create up to 50% fraction porosity within the binder. The net result will be a significant reduction in total weight of the coating. In addition, we will significantly reduce volatile organic compounds (VOC) and Hazardous Air Pollutants(HAP) due to the reduced solvent levels necessary with the reduced levels of binder material. We will carefully optimize the polymer resin chemistry and use unique clay nano-fillers to improve the mechanical and barrier properties of the polyurethanematrix. This will allow us to maintain adequate abrasion resistance, flexibility, chemical resistance and moisture barrier to protect the underlying aircraft, despite the addition of a significant porosity to the coating. The net result will be a uniformcoating, applied with simple low cost methods such as spray coating at reduced VOC levels. These coatings will reduce the weight, cost, and environmental impact associated with RCS reduction.Durable, abrasion- and Chemically resistant RAM coatings willfind application on a variety of Military aircraft. It will find application on ship structures and other military vehicles. In addition it will find application for screening and shielding for TV and cellular communications in civilian markets.