We have developed a novel, high-power, microwave-based
material processing facility for outside customers. The
facility allows multifrequency microwave processing as
well as conventional processing. It can process frequencies
as high as 83 GHz using a gyrotron (15
kW). This unique facility offers multimode operation and
beam-scanning.
The 83-GHz facility is within the Naval
Research Laboratory (NRL), Washington DC campus. We collaborate
with NRL and Materials Research Laboratory at Pennsylvania
State University, and use the facility to develop new
materials and processes. We encourage other organizations
to contact us for help testing new techniques, processes,
and materials.
The main frequencies are the conventional 2.45 GHz and
the novel 83 GHz (using gyrotrons). Most bulk processing
works at 2.45 GHz, but the 83-GHz frequency offers some
unique advantages and applications.
