Using TEM cells for shielding performance evaluation

Recent research has focused on the performance and durability of gaskets which are used on the airframes of carrier-based naval aircraft to seal panels and doors from objectionable intrusion of electromagnetic energy during flight. It is pointed out that while several contrasting techniques have been used in the past to evaluate the effects of corrosion on shielding degradation, the results of such tests have remained too inconclusive, inflexible, or uncertain to permit accurate repeatability as well as correlation with deficiencies and field failures of deployed aircraft. A comprehensive TEM-cell-based technique has been developed to minimize these objectionable test uncertainties and to enhance the gasket test repeatability and interpretation. Specifically an ultra-broadband GTEM (gigahertz transverse electromagnetic) cell is used in corroded gasket testing. With the ultra-broadband GTEM, gasket testing may now be performed over a substantial portion of the frequency spectrum