Microwave absorbing materials based on conducting polymers

Blends of conducting and insulating polymers (e.g. polypyrrole/PVC, see figure) offer distinct weight advantages over the materials, such as dispersions of carbon black or metallic powders in polymer matrices, traditionally used in microwave absorption applications. Polypyrrole, polyaniline, and polythiophene have been examined, their performance parameters compared, and requirements for further development of this technology dicussed. magnified image