Insights

By making changes to the base materials, the team discovers or deliberately engineers new capabilities for developing and existing government customer technologies. This field is creative in that it’s constantly challenging researchers to find a new way of looking at things, but it’s also essential and basic, at the ground level of research. This is because functional electromagnetic materials are the building blocks of physical technologies, including devices we run software on. In this way, the field enables new technologies to develop, evolve, and flourish.

About the Material Research Process

The primary objective of this IRAD project is to discover and manufacture novel materials that improve Department of Defense (DoD) components. Particularly, we are interested in materials used for radio frequencies (RF), microwaves, high-energy-particles/gamma-rays/neutrons, and optical applications. Once we have discovered or identified a material, we want to produce that material through both conventional and innovative manufacturing processes. Following the material discovery and material synthesis steps, we want to characterize the material properties to confirm that the material can operate in the manner needed for device applications. If all prior steps are successful, we intend on using these materials to make devices to confirm device applications.

Specifically, the technology enables better storage capacity, new sensors, new detectors, new hardware, and even advances in hypersonics as our IRAD team focuses on how to find and manufacture these new materials. Because of this, material research is at the forefront of mission-focused problem-solving for our team. Researchers discover, test, and characterize new and existing materials, engaging in a mix-and-match process with existing technology in a safe laboratory environment.

Additionally, the team delves into electromagnetics EM and RF spectrum research, bridging the gap between solid materials creation and optical and microwave studies. For every material examined, it’s critical to know what type of capabilities can penetrate or damage the material, physically and electronically.

Mission-Focused Problem-Solving for the Government Customer

The DoD has a roster of assets in need of updating. As adversaries learn about our technology, this need becomes more constant. We are locked in a race of identifying threats and developing countermeasures. The best way to do this is to adapt quickly and test the new materials and outfitted technology for vulnerabilities.

“We can test these materials onsite for the customer or in our lab,” Research Scientist Ryan O’Dell explains, describing Riverside Research’s flexibility. “And we can provide independent verification of their technology for them.”

This ties into the cooperative research and development agreements (CRADAs) that electromagnetic research is often applied to. This provides a test timeline to ensure the technology is effective. During the CRADA process, Riverside Research receives feedback from principal investigators (PIs), all while utilizing the customer’s equipment under the agreement. This helps shape opportunities and future technology and enables Riverside Research to support formalized contracts from day one.

Functional Electromagnetics: A Widely Applicable Field

Functional electromagnetics impact every domain. Whether it’s on equipment launched into space or a combat vehicle on land, heavy materials cost more fuel to produce, move, and maintain. In many instances, every ounce counts. Making materials lighter is essential.

“Common fiber optic technology is an example of how scientists redesigned a material,” O’Dell explains. “The glass and cables used in fiber optics create better functioning equipment.” In this way, functional electromagnetics are at the forefront of innovation – and are poised to remain there for decades to come.