'Stealth’ fibre-reinforced composite absorbs radar waves

The proof-of-concept material is said to have achieved reflection losses of up to -40dB, equivalent to 99.99% radar absorption.

Developers FibreCoat explain that the new lightweight and flexible fibre-reinforced composite 'goes beyond traditional radar-shielding technology', as it absorbs rather than reflects radar waves,

It uses a bicomponent multifilament yarn dispersed in composites and is made from carefully engineered blends of PMMA, carbon nanotubes and Alucoat fillers.

These are tuned for precise thicknesses (ranging from 0.5mm to 6mm) and for key radar frequency bands such as the X-band (8-12 GHz).

Unlike many stealth solutions that degrade at angle, FibreCoat’s multilayer composites reportedly maintain performance across curved surfaces and slanted radar exposure. In testing, they have achieved ≥ -10dB reflection loss up to 60° in transverse electric mode, and up to 45° in transverse magnetic mode.

Current stealth technology typically requires thick plating or specialised paints.

Dr Robert Brüll, CEO of FibreCoat, says, ‘We’re moving stealth technology beyond the limits imposed by needing to reflect, rather than absorb radar waves. Absorption opens up a range of new possibilities. We expect this fibre-reinforced composite to give the space, defence and automotive sectors more design freedom.'