Transparent Materials to Radar between 4-8 GHz

[avocadogirl]

If I am using radar to determine the distance of an object from my transmission source by reflecting my radio waves off of the surface of the object and recording the time at which they return and, I want to encase my detector to protect it from the elements, how do I select the material with which to encase my detector such that it will be "transparent" to the radar?

Thanks for your time!

M.

 

[Drakkith]

Not sure how much this will help, but a quick google search of "Radome Materials" turned up this: http://www.engineered-radomes.com/id3.html

 

[SteamKing]

Obviously, anything without any metal in it. Most plastics should be transparent.

 

[avocadogirl]

Thank you both, greatly, for your replies. They are both of help and, I appreciate your time.

 

[pmacias]

I would recommend selecting a material that has low dielectric constant and loss tangent in the frequency range of 4-8 GHz. This will ensure that the material does not significantly absorb or reflect the radar waves, allowing them to pass through and reach the detector. Some examples of materials with low dielectric constant and loss tangent in this frequency range include Teflon, polystyrene, and polyethylene. It is also important to consider the thickness of the material, as thicker materials may cause more absorption and reflection of the radar waves. Additionally, materials with a smooth surface will also help reduce reflection of the radar waves. I would also suggest testing the material in a controlled environment to ensure its transparency to radar before encasing the detector.