Intermodulation Interference (IMI) Testing of Composite Materials

摘要

With the possibility of the large-scale use of graphite-bearing composites for topside structures and masts, some concern has been expressed as to whether these materials might be intermodulation interference (IMI) generators. To resolve this question, tests were performed to compare the relative signal levels of intermodulation generated by two graphite fiber composite material samples to a steel sample and to a brass sample. The graphite fiber composite material samples were representative of the materials that will be used in the Advanced Enclosed Mast/Sensor (AEM(S)) System. The results of these tests were evaluated in terms of the potential of graphite-loaded composite structures to be significant generators of IMI on board Navy ships. With the possibility of the large-scale use of graphite-bearing composites for topside structures and masts, some concern has been expressed as to whether these materials might be intermodulation interference (IMI) generators. To resolve this question, tests were performed to compare the relative signal levels of intermodulation generated by two graphite fiber composite material samples to a steel sample and to a brass sample. The graphite fiber composite material samples were representative of the materials that will be used in the Advanced Enclosed Mast/Sensor (AEM/S) System. The results of these tests were evaluated in terms of the potential of graphite-loaded composite structures to be significant generators of IMI on board Navy ships.