Conductive Lightweight Concrete for EMP Protection

Concrete has been used in construction for centuries and is a mature technology for building large structures, but the industry is conservative in embracing new technologies. Lightweight concrete structures are not currently employed for electromagnetic interference (EMI) / electromagnetic pulse (EMP) and blast protection. Creare proposes to fabricate high strength lightweight concrete by using a combination of metal fibers and carbon nanomaterials for improved mechanical strength, blast resistance and EMI/EMP shielding. Our nanomaterial manufacturing process is a highly scalable, available technology that can be produced at low cost. We have key collaborators in the concrete and nanomaterial’s industry. In Phase I, we will produce and test aerated conductive concrete samples and test them for conductivity and strength. In Phase II of the project, we will scale up to and make concrete systems including multiple blocks and passthroughs. We plan on completing EMI testing of these larger blocks and systems during Phase II.