Enhanced electrical, thermal and radio frequency for high reflectivity

The University of Patras undertook an ESA Technology Research Programme (TRP) study to introduce carbon nanotube (CNT)-modified polymer materials for the manufacturing of antenna reflectors. The presence of carbon nanotubes in resin systems offers enhanced electrical, thermal and radio frequency (RF) properties as well as easier and cheaper fulfilment of requirements for high reflectivity and good thermo-elastic stability for complex shapes, compared to conventional carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP). The study demonstrated that reinforcement with nanotubes offered the additional functionality of retaining the stability of other reflector properties.