Microwave-absorbing honeycomb core structure with nickel-coated glass fabric prepared by electroless plating

Abstract

In this study, we designed and fabricated a broadband microwave-absorbing honeycomb core structure using a nickel-coated glass fabric, which can absorb the electromagnetic waves propagating along three orthogonal directions. The electromagnetic properties of the pristine glass fabric were modified via an electroless nickel plating. The elemental composition, phase identification, and magnetic characteristics of the nickel-coated glass fabric were examined via scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and vibrating-sample magnetometry. Unlike the implement methods of conventional microwave-absorbing honeycomb core structure such as dip coating, spray coating, and foam-filling, the proposed structure was produced without incorporating conductive particles or metal magnetic micropowders within the polymer matrix. The fabricated structure exhibited an absorption of −10 dB from 5.8 to 18 GHz and it was in good agreement with simulation result. In addition, we performed tensile, compressive, and interlaminar shear tests to evaluate the mechanical performance of the structure. Given the desirable radar-absorption and mechanical characteristics of the structure, it has significant potential for use in stealth technology applications.