Analysis and optimization of a wideband metamaterial absorber made of composite materials

Abstract

Using structural composite materials for the fabrication of Radar Absorbing Materials (RAM) allows combining the strong load bearing capability with the radar absorbing functionality in a unique structure. This article shows the possibility to transpose an already existing metamaterial absorber to the domain of composite materials. The dielectric layers of the absorber initially designed with radio-frequency (RF) materials are replaced with fiberreinforced composite materials and their thickness is optimized again. The working principle of the absorber is explained layer by layer on the Smith chart. The performances of the composite absorber are compared against the initial RF design and against other classical absorbers. The composite design has a total thickness of 8.9 mm and achieves a reflection coefficient below-14 dB within the band 4.6 GHz-17.2 GHz at normal incidence. The reflection coefficient remains under-10 dB at oblique incidence up to 45°.

Ultra-Wideband Electromagnetic Composite Absorber Based on Pixelated Metasurface with Optimization Algorithm

“…However, there are drawbacks in that the total size of the structure is bulky and/or the fabrication process becomes complex as the number of stacked layers is increased. To solve these problems, studies on EM absorbers in the form of composites to improve practicality have also been published [26][27][28][29][30].…”