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Purdue University researchers have created a new way to use directed energy in biomedical and defense applications.
Purdue’s invention makes it possible to use composite-based nonlinear transmission lines (NLTLs), which can be used to create a high-power microwave system. This eliminates the need for additional procedures. NLTLs have gained popularity over the last few decades as they are an efficient solid-state solution to traditional vacuum-based, high-power microwave generators. These generators require expensive and large external systems such as cryogenic electromagnets or high-voltage nanosecond-pulse generators.
NLTLs are effective in defense and biomedical applications. They produce high-power microwaves with directed power that can be used at great distances to destroy or disrupt the electronic equipment of adversaries. This technology can also be used to sterilize and provide noninvasive medical treatment.
Andrew Fairbanks is a Purdue graduate research assistant and a Ph.D. candidate. “We developed a new NLTL system that reduces the bulkiness of existing options and opens up new opportunities for protecting our country and helping patients in a man-portable form factor,” he said. Engineering is concerned with size, weight, power, and cost. All of these are addressed by our invention.
The Purdue team was led by Allen Garner, associate professor of nuclear Engineering. Researchers created a new device that used composite-based NLTLs to create complete high-power microwave systems. This included high-voltage pulse and microwave formation. The Purdue device combines elements from traditional NLTLs and creates a composite-based system that eliminates bulky auxiliary equipment.
A DC high-voltage supply powers the system and is discharged with a gas-based switch. This system is less dependent on external pulse generation and more robust due to its solid-state construction.
This work was made possible by the Office of Naval Research (Grant No. N00014-18-1-2341).
Fairbanks showcased Purdue technology at the Directed Energy Professional Society annual Science and Technology Symposium.
The innovators collaborated with the Purdue Research Foundation Office of Technology Commercialization to patent their technology.
Fairbanks stated that OTC at Purdue has greatly benefited the team and helped with our technological progress. “OTC and other resources provided by Purdue Research Foundation support the transfer of our technology to the rest of the world via patenting and commercialization.”
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