New radar-absorbing material may enable cheaper mass production, as commercial 'stealth paint' reports stir discussion
Radar-absorbing materials have long been linked to stealth fighters, cruise missiles, and other high-end military platforms, where performance often comes at a steep price.
However, in China, some stealth coatings may be transitioning to large-scale industrial manufacturing, quickly lowering costs.
A research team from Foshan University reported a low-cost microwave-absorbing composite made from expanded graphite and titanium dioxide, according to a peer-reviewed study published in the Journal of Ceramics in April.
The researchers noted that the material offers strong electromagnetic wave absorption alongside a relatively straightforward production process, potentially cutting costs compared to many existing high-performance absorbing materials.
This advancement is notable because advanced radar-absorbing systems have typically depended on expensive components like graphene, carbon nanotubes, and other engineered composite materials.
Instead, the Foshan team utilized expanded graphite, a significantly cheaper and more accessible carbon material. According to the authors, this method could enhance the practicality of mass production and expand applications beyond military-specific uses.