Hypersonics

High temperatures and high speeds create material challenges

As aircraft have advanced and reached higher speeds, the need for more robust materials has grown. A particularly challenging area is related to external electronics on hypersonic vehicles. Radomes, antenna covers, and other protective components must withstand the heat generated by wind resistance, while still remaining transparent to the electromagnetic waves used for telecommunication.

 

boron nitride m26 microwave window
Fused silica and hBN have been consistent candidates for use in aerospace radomes or electromagnetic windows since the 1970s. When combined into a composite, such as COMBAT® grades M & M26, benefits from both materials become apparent. The hBN brings excellent thermal conductivity, thermal shock resistance, and dielectric strength, while silica provides improved mechanical properties and a low dielectric constant. As a composite, toughness, ablation surface temperature, and ablation resistance are also improved. 
Related Content