Development of low PIM, zero CTE mesh for deployable communications antennas

The requirements that led to the development of the radio-frequency reflective fabric (RF 2) for use on wrap-rib mesh-type reflectors are discussed. The advantages of this mesh include low passive intermodulation (PIM) and a near-zero coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). The composite mesh is composed of Kevlar and beryllium copper and accommodates all mesh requirements. Measured data for the mesh are presented.<
>