Iron Silicide

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Product Data Sheet: Iron Silicide Microwave Absorbing Materials

Steward produces a series of patented Iron Silicide materials with controlled particle shapes that offer the user options in product design and energy absorption performance.  Iron Silicide has been incorporated into military programs seeking to optimize performance with improved survivability and reduced maintenance cost.

The unique characteristics of Iron Silicide Type I and III makes the materials –

·         Oxidation Resistant

·         Non-erosive (abrasion resistant)

·         Chemical resistant

·         Less dense than Carbonyl Iron Powder (CIP)

·         Reflective absorption performance similar to CIP

·         Fire resistant

·         Compatible with water based polymers, polyurethanes, fluoroelastomers, silicones, ceramics and higher temperature elastomers

·         Particle size and shape can be customized for specific applications

Particle Geometric Features:       

Iron Silicide Type I – Angular APD < 10 µm

Figure 1:  SEM photo of Iron Silicide Type I at 2,000 and 5,000 magnification.

Iron Silicide Type III – Geometric Spherodial with APD ~6 µm      

Figure 2:  SEM photo of Iron Silicide Type III at 2,000 and 5,000 magnification.

Iron Silicide Type IV – Geometric Shape with Aspect Ratio

Iron Silicide Type IV features very thin geometrically shaped platelets whose thickness is on the order of 0.1-0.3 µm and whose plane diameter is 20-30 µm.  Laser diffraction suggests the mean size of approximately 23 µm.  Particles with these features can be highly effective as a tool for suppressing EMI from electronic devices or shielding them from external emissions.  The magnetic properties and shape of Iron Silicide Type IV offers significant advantages to the RF designer and manufacturers of suppression coatings and EMI thin flexible films.       

Figure 3:  SEM photo of Iron Silicide Type IV at 2,000 and 5,000 magnification.

Typical Values:

For further technical insight and application information please reference the white paper titled “An Iron-Based Filler for RF Suppression Treatment” by Dr. Henry Paris, Steward Advanced Materials dated August 29, 2007.  A copy of this can be provided upon request.     

To discuss your specific applications and request samples for testing please contact Scott F. Smith at:

Steward Advanced Materials

Phone: (423) 468-1839

Fax:      (423) 468-1802

Email: ssmith@stewardsolutions.com.