Utilization of Hydrophobic Materials for Air Inflated Radomes

Abstract

Satellite communication signals of very low power have im posed a need for low power loss in the radome surrounding the receiving antenna which represents near state-of-the-art development in the conven tional material, Hypalon-coated Dacron. The influence of water absorption characteristics became of primary significance, and the need to prevent the formation of water films on the surface of the material was of particular importance. Tests conducted with a variety of hydrophobic surface finishes have resulted in a significant improvement in radome performance.