Investigation of Hydrophobic Radomes for Microwave Landing System.

Abstract : A variety of hydrophobic materials were tested to determine useful life and degree of effectiveness. The tests consisted of monitoring coated samples which were exposed to year-round weathering; field tests in which operating MLS radomes were coated and system accuracy measured; and an evaluation by a testing laboratory using a weatherometer. It was concluded that Teflon fabric offered the best compromise between effectiveness and maintainability, although fumed silicon dioxide provided the highest hydrophobicity. (Author)