Carbon nanotube coatings on electrochemical textured surfaces for advanced adsorptive baffles

This proposed STTR program addresses the challenge of developing advanced absorptive baffles to minimize stray and reflected light across the visible and infrared wavebands for exo-atmospheric optical sensors and seeker telescopes. To achieve this goal Faraday Technology and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory will develop electrochemically textured pyramidal surfaces with CNT black coatings as absorptive baffles. Specifically, in Phase I pyramid-like surfaces will be developed through pulse/pulse reverse electrochemical surface finishing process and CNT films will be coated on the textured baffle surfaces through electrophoretic deposition. The optical performance of the proposed textured baffle surfaces with CNT black coatings will be validated in Phase I by specular reflectance and total hemispherical scatter, as well as harsh environment testing (such as shock, vibration, cryogenic environments). A preliminary economic analysis and transition plan will be also created. In Phase II, the team will measure the bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) of objective material samples and produce baffle prototypes and deliver to government for independent performance testing. Approved for Public Release | 19-MDA-9932 (21 Feb 19)