Low-observable radomes composed of composite sandwich constructions and frequency selective surfaces

In this work, low-observable stealth radomes composed of composite sandwich constructions and FSS (Frequency Selective Surfaces) were developed for selective wave transmission and reflection characteristics. The FSS was composed of a copper foil and a polyimide film. The sandwich constructions were composed of plain weave fabric E-glass/epoxy composites and PVC foams, which protect the radar antenna in the radome from external loads. The electromagnetic transmission characteristics of the low-observable radome wall were numerically calculated with 3-dimensional electromagnetic analysis software, and compared with the measured results by the free space measurement system. Also the mechanical properties of the sandwich constructions were investigated.