Priyanka Tiwari
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As it turns out, China would be using ancient technology dating back 3,000 years while building their fifth-generation stealth fighter jets to make them more durable and effective. This should certainly be shocking news for America. Considering that they are currently having issues dealing with F-22 Raptors losing layers of radar-absorbent coatings, China’s news does not come as a pleasant surprise. With the application of a rare and old weaving technique, China was able to solve this problem.
How the problem grows
The American fighter jets rely too heavily on stealth technology coatings designed to either absorb or deflect radar waves. Those coatings tend to deteriorate rapidly over time and with constant use, especially due to high speeds, desert storms, and humidity. US military reports mention the reapplication of the coatings requiring millions of dollars to spend every three weeks. Corrosion and humidity in coastal regions make the problem even worse.
What is the age of this technology?
A solution to this problem has been found by Chinese aeronautical engineers. Their work is based on the ancient Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD) 'jacquard' weaving technology. A special two-layer textile structure has been developed by Chinese scientists, integrating threads capable of electrical conduction. This material is more effective than usual coatings as it can absorb 90.6% of 8-26 GHz frequency radar waves.
Ten times reinforced and stronger
The way quartz fiber operates is unique in this innovative technology. Radar waves are captured and converted to heat by fine threads of stainless steel. As in ancient times when thread design was intricately applied by weavers, this phenomenon also occurs. This method is considered to be much more durable and stronger than stealth coatings. It can sustain an impressive pressure of 93.5 megapascal which is ten times the conventional coating durability.
The knitting machine
This concept was derived from the ancient Chinese loom which came up with beautifully complex patterns for weaving over a millennia ago. An example of this would include during the Han Dynasty. These looms could have as many as 120 heddle rods and were known for weaving patterns finely. They can also be called the world’s first ‘memory weaving machines’ owing to the ability to store designs.
Looms of yesteryear were as advanced as modern day computers
As stated by history, looms of the eastern Han period served a dual purpose of clothing production and even served as an early form of technology as they were able to store designs in a coded format. Modern day scientists have started using this ancient weaving knowledge to create advanced technology that makes the armed jets in China much more efficient and powerful.
