Abstract:
Composite structural components are disclosed that include electrically conducting fibres providing signal power paths to electrical components disposed on or adjacent the material. The signal paths may therefore be embedded in the structural component. Also disclosed is a flexible or drapable fabric containing electrically conducting fibres for similar purposes, and materials for making up said structure and fabrics and methods for the production thereof.
Abstract:
This invention relates to a radiator 10 and to a method of making a radiator. In particular, this invention relates to a radiator 10 having thin-film 5 coatings that serve to increase the thermal emissivity of the entire structure. A radiator 10 is provided comprising a substrate 12, an amorphous carbon layer 16 and the metallic carbide forming layer 14 interposed between the substrate 12 and amorphous carbon layer 16. In addition, a method of making a radiator is provided comprising the steps of forming the metallic carbide-forming layer on 10 a substrate and forming an amorphous carbon layer on the metallic carbide- forming layer.
Abstract:
The following invention relates to high energy capacitors with increased thermal resilience over conventional bulk ceramic capacitors, particularly capacitors that may be formed into a three dimensional shape to fit inside an existing device. The capacitor is provided with first and second electrodes (16, 17) which have a plurality of interlocating protrusions (11, 12), which increase the relative surface area of the electrodes. The first and second electrodes (16, 17) and interlocating protrusions (11, 12) are provided with through holes (29). The devices are filled with a flowable dielectric material.
Abstract:
The structural health of a structure such as an aircraft is monitored by spraying a paint formulation containing a loading of carbon nanopartides to provide a paint layer forming part of a paint system. The paint layer forms a smart skin whose electrical properties may be monitored to determine structural health.
Abstract:
An electro-optic window (1200) is made of a material substantially transparent to infra-red radiation and is treated to have reduced RF transmission characteristics by the provision of carbon nanotubes within the window or on at least one surface thereof.
Abstract:
A method of forming carbon nanotubes by plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition using a carbon containing gas plasma, wherein the carbon nanotubes are not formed on a substrate at a temperature 300 °C or above.
Abstract:
A method of forming carbon nanotubes by plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition using a carbon containing gas plasma, wherein the carbon nanotubes are not formed on a substrate at a temperature 300 °C or above.
Abstract:
A method for electroless metal deposition on a surface in a finely dimensioned space (e.g. the bore of a hollow fibre) comprises introducing into said space an electroless plating solution that has a nil or relatively low plating rate at normal room temperature, and there after heating said structure to an elevated temperature for a period sufficient to cause metal to plate on the wall surface. The steps of introducing and heating may be repeated as necessary to build up a required thickness.
Abstract:
This invention is concerned with means for detecting potential fracturing, such as stress fractures, or damage to, a fibre based structure, by incorporating either hollow fibres containing coloured fluids, or solid fibres, or hollow fibres containing coloured fluids or fluids, which are capable of changing their visual appearance when exposed to external forces, and/or by incorporating fibres within the structure which can change a property such as electrical resistance, capacitance or inductance so that there is an indication whenever and wherever and the extent when a fracture occurs. Where coloured fluids are used, detection is by leakage of the fluid around the fracture. Where colour changing fluids are employed, detection is by observation of change of colour of the fluid. Different fluids can be used for different levels in the strata of tubes in the structure and where these are embedded within the structure, they can be observed where the fibres emanate from the body of the structure. Where fibres are incorporated into the structure that rely on electrical properties to sense a fracture, these fibres may be solid and formed from electrically conductive material and may be coated with such material. Alternatively, though used together with solid fibres, hollow fibres may be used where those hollow fibres contain and/or are coated with electrically conductive material. Appropriate detector means are associated with these fibres to detect the occurrence of a fracture.