Advocacy / Member News
Integrated EMI Shielding and Signal Support: How Conductive Paint Enhances Modern Sonobuoys
Burlington, ON – May 27, 2025
MG Chemicals is proud to support innovation in underwater surveillance and defence systems with materials designed for performance in demanding environments. One such application is the use of an acrylic conductive paint, in the construction of modern sonobuoys—expendable sonar buoys used for anti-submarine warfare and underwater acoustic research.
Deployed from ships or aircraft, sonobuoys activate upon water impact and lower hydrophone sensors below the surface. Above the waterline, a radio transmitter relays acoustic data to airborne operators via UHF/VHF radio frequencies. These compact systems must perform reliably despite exposure to saltwater, signal congestion, and physical obstructions.
Sonobuoys operate in electromagnetically active environments, where radar, onboard transmitters, and other RF sources can interfere with signal clarity. Additionally, line-of-sight disruptions, such as a naval vessel passing between the buoy and the receiving aircraft, can reduce transmission quality or cause temporary dropouts.
MG Chemicals acrylic conductive paint addresses these challenges through its multifunctional performance:
- EMI Shielding: the paint forms a conductive barrier that protects sensitive electronic components from nearby electromagnetic interference.
- Signal Reflection: When applied around antenna enclosures or communication modules, the conductive paint creates a reflective surface that can redirect or stabilize signal transmission, helping to maintain connectivity even when direct line-of-sight is obstructed.
- Conformal Ground Plane Formation: The conductive paint can be applied as a spray-on ground plane in compact or irregular layouts, supporting antenna efficiency without the need for wires or heavy metal components.
As naval defence technologies become increasingly compact and communications-intensive, MG Chemicals remains committed to supporting manufacturers with high-performance solutions that meet the challenges of modern maritime operations.
To learn more about how conductive paints are also used in RADAR applications, visit https://mgchemicals.com/knowledgebase/case-studies/radar-cross-section/
About CADSI
The Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries (CADSI) is the national industry voice of more than 650 Canadian defence, security and cybersecurity companies that produce world-class goods, services and technologies made across Canada and sought the world over. The industries contribute to the employment of more than 78,000 Canadians and generate $12.6 billion in annual revenues, roughly half of which come from exports. To learn more, visit defenceandsecurity.ca and follow us on Twitter at @CadsiCanada .
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