THERMACOM

The THERMACOM project aims to address scientific and technical challenges related to the performance of antenna systems and RF cables, particularly in severe thermal environments. The targeted applications cover both Defense (antennas, radar signatures) and civilian (space, nuclear, volcanology) domains. Generally Radiofrequency (RF) and microwave systems, including antennas, cables, and associated connectors, must withstand high temperatures, typically several tens of degrees are common. Nevertheless, for some systems, these temperatures may become much higher : for example in environments such as hypersonic vehicles, space launchers, satellites, and nuclear reactors, for which temperatures can reach 600°C. The challenge lies in designing these technologies to jointly accommodate thermomechanical, aerothermal and electromagnetic constraints. The integration of an antenna system subjected to very high temperatures cannot be limited to the radiation cell; it must take into account the RF cabling to which it is connected. The primary objective of the project is to develop experimental capabilities (advanced measurement protocols and technologies) to test and characterize these components under thermal stress, in order to ensure their performance under extreme thermal constraints. This development includes setting up three dedicated test benches: - A tubular oven based test bench to evaluate RF cables and mock-ups. - A Free Space test bench (i.e. outside an anechoic chamber) to characterize dielectric materials and antenna radiation under thermal stress. - A waveguide bench to electromagnetically characterize (complex permittivity and permeability) material samples at high temperatures. These benches will allow the measurement og the electromagnetic response of components under conditions similar to those encountered in defense or civilian contexts. More specifically, the project also proposes the development of an innovative solution for semi-rigid RF cables capable of operating at high temperatures, up to 600°C. These cables, used typically in AESA and SAR radars, enable the transmission of signals with high precision. In addition, the project proposes a PhD thesis. The a doctoral student will work on thermo-electromagnetic modeling, and will participate through his fundamental work in the coherence between the different stages of the project. This work falls under the thematic axis "Acoustic and Radioelectric Waves," specifically the following sub-themes will be adressed : - " Generation and measurement of radiation », under the sub-theme « Antenna systems in aerothermal environments," - "Electronic Warfare and Stealth," under the sub-theme "In-situ electromagnetic characterization of materials at high temperatures." To carry out this work, the THERMACOM project is organized around three partners with complementary profiles: - ONERA, research laboratory for defense, aeronautics and space. - RADIALL, industrial leader in the development and manufacturing of connectors and associated components for electronic applications. - The Fresnel Institute, academic research laboratory in optics, photonics, electromagnetism, information processing and advanced imaging.