Characterisation and Comparison of Material Parameters of 3D-Printable Absorbing Materials

Abstract

We compared different commercially available materials that are 3D-printable for their suitability for making microwave absorbers by means of additive manufacturing, i.e., 3D printing. For this, we determined their complex permittivity, and, if applicable, the complex permeability. They are responsible for the RF losses within the material and, therefore, determine its usefulness as an absorber material. Further, we made SEM (scanning electron microscope) images of material samples showing the filling materials that have been used to achieve absorbing properties.

Keywords

• 3D printing
• filament
• material parameters
• absorber materials
• permittivity
• permeability