Periodic Reporting for period 1 - SolvEMCA2 (A Fast Numerical Solver for Electromagnetic Compatibility Assessment of Aircrafts Made Using Nano- and Micro- Engineered Materials)
Periodo di rendicontazione: 2022-09-26 al 2024-09-25
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) represents a significant threat to aircraft safety, potentially causing critical system failures during flight. While metals have long been the preferred choice for EMI shielding due to their effectiveness, the aviation industry is increasingly turning to composite materials like carbon fiber composites (CFC) and carbon fiber reinforced carbon composites (CFRC) to achieve weight reduction, improved fuel efficiency, and cost savings. Despite their advantages in weight, corrosion resistance, and impact strength, these composites fall short in EMI shielding capabilities, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions. As the industry incorporates lighter materials and explores advanced nano- and micro-engineered options, thorough assessments of electromagnetic performance are crucial for identifying vulnerabilities. Typically, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) evaluations are conducted late in the manufacturing process, leading to costly redesigns if problems are discovered. In response to these challenges, the SolvEMCA2 project aims to develop an accelerated numerical solver for assessing EMC in aircraft built with advanced materials, empowering engineers to predict electromagnetic challenges early in the design phase and enabling informed decision-making while simulating in-flight conditions that may not be achievable in experimental settings.
The following points are therefore addressed within SolvEMCA2:
-Characterization of electric and magnetic behaviour of new EMI shielding materials
-Integrating the material into actual Computer-Aided Design (CAD) aircraft models
-Accelerating numerical solver for simulating electromagnetic wave propagation through materials
These investigations aim to provide a valuable tool and design guidelines for the development of future aircraft, incorporating new materials and technologies for effective EMI shielding.
The following points are therefore addressed within SolvEMCA2:
-Characterization of electric and magnetic behaviour of new EMI shielding materials
-Integrating the material into actual Computer-Aided Design (CAD) aircraft models
-Accelerating numerical solver for simulating electromagnetic wave propagation through materials
These investigations aim to provide a valuable tool and design guidelines for the development of future aircraft, incorporating new materials and technologies for effective EMI shielding.
Over the first year of SolvEMCA2, initial investigations have been conducted into the mathematical modeling of new composite materials. We have defined various scenarios involving different composites, focusing on the design of rubber mixtures with small particles, as well as varying the types and proportions of material inclusions. A significant emphasis has been placed on studying both reflection and absorption characteristics at specific frequencies, allowing us to explore how these properties can be optimized for effective EMI shielding. Our research revealed an intriguing relationship between the composition of the materials and their reflective properties, suggesting that careful tuning of the mixing ratios can enhance EMI shielding performance. Theoretical models, supported by numerical simulations and experimental measurements, indicate the feasibility of using these novel materials in aircraft applications. Additionally, we are actively developing a mathematical model to achieve material homogeneity, which is crucial for ensuring consistent EMI shielding across the composite. This model aims to quantify how different particle sizes and distributions affect the overall electromagnetic properties of the material, enabling us to predict performance more accurately. After the first twelve months, our focus shifted towards accelerating the numerical solver and specifically addressing EMI shielding in targeted areas of the aircraft. This targeted approach aims to refine our understanding of how these new materials can be integrated into critical components, ensuring enhanced protection against electromagnetic interference.
The advancements made during the SolvEMCA2 project are introducing innovative paradigms for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) assessment in aircraft that utilize advanced nano- and micro-engineered materials. These developments are set to enhance the performance of lightweight composite materials in high-stakes aviation environments, where EMI poses significant safety risks. By optimizing new material and accurately modelling their electromagnetic properties, the project aims to improve shielding effectiveness in complex operational conditions. This dynamic allocation will enhance control over electromagnetic wave fields, reducing unintended environmental interferences and minimizing human exposure to EMI. While it is still early to fully assess the commercial or socio-economic impacts, the potential benefits are substantial, and we look forward to providing detailed insights into market viability and regulatory implications as the project progresses.