Composites - Their Electrical and Electromagnetic Impact

Abstract

In recent years composite materials have been developed to the point that their strength and weight characteristics make them very attractive as substitutes for metals in various aircraft applications. However, from the electrical standpoint, composites are marginally conductive materials which are capable of supporting only a very minimal current flow, are in many cases capable of providing only marginal shielding and are in some ways unique in their characteristics with respect to electromagnetic fields. The electrical and electromagnetic impact of composites is directly related to the ways in which composites change aircraft characteristics such as lightning protection, shielding effectiveness, electrical systems, antenna operation, static electricity protection and radar cross-section. Because of the change in these various characteristics, weapon system design and development from fuel system, avionics and electrical systems to methods of installation for electrical ground jacks and static electricity dischargers may be significantly affected.