DEFENCE & SECURITY

Radar absorbing materials

We have developed a broadband radio frequency (RF) absorption capability using ultrathin and lightweight single-layer and laminated nanomaterial coatings.

The technology can be optimised to match a material’s rheology, mechanical and thermal properties, enabling integration with composite matrices and foam structures, further enhancing the absorption performance.

The technology is being developed to help reduce the RF signatures of aerospace, ground and maritime vehicles and reduce radar interference from wind farms.

Active thermal camouflage

We have developed technology that can obscure an object’s signature from infra-red (IR) gaze at the flick of a switch.

Our device can control the apparent thermal emissivity of personnel or equipment, keeping high-value assets and people safe.

Our IR camouflage concept is scalable, ultra-thin and lightweight, for application across platform types.

The same technology can be used to provide thermal management and, potentially, tactical IR covert communications.

Laser weapon eyewear and sensor protection

We are developing stable, thin, flexible films and coatings that counter laser-directed energy weapons.

This technology can be integrated simply into personal equipment, such as visors and goggles or provide electro-optic protection for cameras and sensors.

As a film, it could also provide anti-laser dazzle protection on the cockpit windscreen, offering an extra layer of protection for the pilot against directed energy weapons. Our materials provide a sharper frequency response, improved stability and are lower cost than alternative technologies.

Electromagnetic shielding with ultra-lightweight nanomaterial coatings

Our advanced, hybrid, nanocarbon-based inks and coatings provide a non-metallic electromagnetic (EM) and RF shielding technology.

The shielding provides broadband protection, which is lighter, thinner and lower cost than comparative technologies. It can be integrated into composites or applied as a coating onto numerous substrate materials and can withstand harsh environmental conditions.

Weapon Sector Research Framework (WSRF) funding helped develop enhanced capabilities to protect electronic systems in both defence and the commercial sector.

CBRN sensors

We aim to provide highly selective and sensitive chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) sensing platforms that are based on nanomaterial and photonic-crystal technology.

An array of sensors could allow for fast determination of a specific threat through a change in resistance or a colour change upon exposure to external analytes such as chemical warfare agents.

This novel approach enables low-cost, lightweight, passive wearable ChemBio sensors that can be incorporated into or onto every warfighter’s combat uniform. The technology might also be integrated into gas masks as a residual life indicator.

Structural health monitoring

Our multifunctional materials enable resistive sensors for embedded structural health monitoring that have a unique combination of extremely high sensitivity and a large dynamic range.

Embedded in system substrates, these sensors could provide valuable real-time data on a platform or a component’s structural integrity including the detection of structural fatigue and micro-cracking.

Flexible electronics

Our highly conductive 2D nanomaterial inks can be printed or embedded into flexible materials and fabrics as small-scale electronics or antenna applications.

These flexible electronics can match the thermal and mechanical properties of host structures for potential ‘Internet of Things’ devices, wearables, and covert and medical use.