Aluminum foam combines electromagnetic shielding and energy absorption for nuclear applications such as fusion shielding, fuel transport protection, and equipment buffering.
Nuclear-grade performance of foam aluminum
| Property | Value / Range |
| Density | 0.5 ~ 0.8 g/cm³ |
| EMI Shielding | 60 ~ 100 dB |
| Compressive Strength | 15 ~ 35 MPa |
| Energy Absorption | 10 ~ 30 MJ/m³ |
| Stiffness | Elastic Modulus: 0.7 ~ 1.4 GPa |
| Thermal Expansion | (14 ~ 20) × 10⁻⁶ /°C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 0.2 ~ 0.8 W/(m·K) |
| Heat Resistance | No deformation at 780°C; heat resistant up to 1000°C |
| Sound Absorption | Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC): 0.4 ~ 0.8 |
| Sound Insulation | 20 ~ 40 dB |
For broader material forms and specifications, see our porous aluminum foam sheet and plate range.
Electromagnetic shielding for fusion reactors
Foam aluminum delivers strong EMI shielding in fusion environments. It performs well in high-frequency and high-power AC conditions, with shielding effectiveness up to 60–100 dB. It has been successfully used in major international fusion projects.
Chalco's foam aluminum was successfully applied to the EAST controlled nuclear fusion device of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The solution reduced the weight to just 1/15 of the original, while increasing the shielding effectiveness from 29 dB to 70 dB.
Nuclear fuel transport protection
Foam aluminum is used as a liner in nuclear fuel transport casks. With 15–35 MPa compressive strength and 10–30 MJ/m³ energy absorption, it protects against impact and shock. Its low density and corrosion resistance ensure safe long-distance transport.
Shock absorption for nuclear equipment
Foam aluminum acts as a buffer in sensitive nuclear systems like missiles and warheads, extending its use into military protection applications. Its unique stress-strain behavior enables stable energy absorption under shock. It remains effective across extreme temperatures.
EMC-proof modular shielding rooms
Foam aluminum panels are ideal for EMC shielding rooms in military or nuclear sites. They offer ≥60 dB EMI attenuation, sound insulation, and fire safety. Modular design makes them easy to install and integrate.
More Aluminum Foam Applications
Aluminum Foam for Automotive
Aluminum Foam for Construction
Aluminum Foam Panel for Sound Absorption
Aluminum Foam Noise Barrier
Marine-Grade Aluminum Foam Solutions
For more background on manufacturing methods and uses across different industries, see our guide to aluminum foam preparation and applications.
