Low Observability
Low observable technology, widely known to the world as stealth, aims to reduce as much as possible the infrared, visual, acoustic, and radar signatures emitted by vehicles, whether they are seaborne, airborne, or on the ground.
Depending on the threat sensor, low observable technology consists of a combination of different technologies, ranging from shaping to special materials (electromagnetic shielding and radar absorbing materials) and structures.
Electromagnetic interference shielding materials generated with the extensive application of electromagnetic wave have been utilized in different fields and applications as military radar stealth, electromagnetic shielding of advanced electronic equipment or electromagnetic radiation protection.
Video 1. Gnanomat magnetism demonstration.
Radar absorbing materials and structures are designed to absorb radar waves and minimise or eliminate reflection. The absorbed energy is converted to heat. Because these radar waves are not returned, radar absorbing materials (RAM) and radar absorbing structures (RAS) provide a reduced signature for detection.
Typically, RAM and RAS are used in defence applications and in commercial communication activities that require the absorption of electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). EMI refers to unwanted electromagnetic emissions that can interfere with or degrade the performance of electrical equipment. RFI is unwanted electrical energy within the frequency range used by RF transmissions.
Radar absorbing and shielding technology has attracted a growing interest due to the recent advances in enemy electronic warfare and detection capabilities. While there has been tested different radar absorbing material (RAM) composites for shelters and vehicles, there are currently no effective and lightweight wearable options to mitigate detection of a dismounted soldier.
Carbon black particles, carbon fibers, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and graphene are used in composites to tailor the wave’s absorption properties of a composite. Multilayered structures are also recommended by researchers to extend the absorption band for better stealth application*.
Enhanced electromagnetic absorption properties can be achieved form the graphene-based radar absorbing materials along with incorporating the magnetic particles of different microstructures, particle size, and electromagnetic characteristics. Gnanomat is following this novel approach with hybrid materials offering a new ground-breaking factor to the market, formulating the ink from the powder material that will be applied on the final application.
Fig. 2 Magnetic behaviour under the influence of an applied field.
The market of structural radar absorbing and EMI shielding materials is extremely low in Europe due to the highly confidential development environment and Gnanomat`s magnetic hybrid materials are an excellent alternative to develop fine solutions to develop downstream materials. Hence, there is an existing and growing demand in Europe for industrial solutions designed to quench and absorb the electromagnetic footprint.
Gnanomat´s hybrid materials offer different magnetic behaviour upon request.
* Article: https://doi.org/10.1002/pc.25311