Low CTE Waveguide for Extreme Thermal Environment

Paper number

IAC-08.C2.6.7

Author

Mr. Sandro Mileti, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Italy

Coauthor

Mr. Plinio Coluzzi, Sapienza University Rome, Italy, Italy

Coauthor

Mr. Fabio Mazza, Sapienza University Rome, Italy, Italy

Coauthor

Mr. Piersante Miccichè, Sapienza University Rome, Italy, Italy

Coauthor

Prof. Mario Marchetti, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Italy

Year

2008

Abstract

Probes are being sent towards extreme environments of our solar system. The delivery of the science in these environments is a challenge for waveguide systems. The crucial aspects of the design are associated with, and constrained by, the high-temperature, high-radiation exposure and suitable conductivity, requiring advanced materials having a very low Coefficient of Thermal Expansion. The combination of these requirements  led  to  the  selection of carbon-carbon as an ideal material due to its low CTE, good strength, and excellent high temperature characteristics.
The purpose of this research was to investigate the feasibility of using carbon-carbon composite for waveguide applications. Characterization of the mechanical properties are determined through several room and high temperature tests. A prototype rectangular tube-type assembly was fabricated and copper was plated on the surface of the composite material as conducting surfaces. Specific experiments aimed to study the electromagnetic and physical properties of the composite material were performed. Particularly, the in plane and transverse CTE were examined to determine the proper milling procedure and exploit material qualities. In addition, the machining direction was essential to satisfy the dimensional stability specifications. Outgassing qualification of the composite was analyzed and some coating solutions were also studied.
Prototype waveguide frequency range measurements and efficiency were tested to evaluate the compatibility with the extreme temperatures.

Abstract document

IAC-08.C2.6.7.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-08.C2.6.7.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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