Design and architecting of a broadband bullet-diamond shaped integrated frequency selective meta-surface absorber for aero-stealth platform

Abstract

Abstract The work report on architecture of integrated frequency selective meta-surface (IFSMS) absorbers for aerospace stealth applications. Fabricated IFSMS comprised of a pattern metasurface integrated with dielectric interlayer and conducting ground. Initially, a supercell (2 × 2-unit cell: 24 × 24 mm2) was designed with a fourfold topological symmetry. Supercell produces impedances (R), inductances (L), and capacitances (C) in tune with design on its interaction with microwave. RC performance was tested at variable incident transverse electric/magnetic (TE/TM) modes over, Θ, 0°–60° and at the normal incidence (TE), against a planer, clockwise rotation over, Φ, 0°–90°. The mode stability and rotational invariance was analyzed for displacement current- and power-density distributions. The impedance behavior and phase reversal S11 reflection coefficient studies revealed the emergence of mid-band Fabry–Perot mode distinguishing LC behavior of the circuit. The meta-pattern was manufactured by mask lithography using a customized resistive micro-carbon ink and imprinted onto dielectric/ground tile (dimension: 30 × 30 cm2). Structure–property relationship of the ink material was investigated using SEM, XRD, FTIR, UV–visible spectroscopy to reveled surface properties of imprinted material. The absorber was subjected to the free space measurements over C (4–8), X (8–12), and Ku (12–18 GHz) bands, including pristine interlayer dielectrics. The simulated and experimental RC data was found to be in excellent agreement. The proposed IFSMS design is a potential candidate for the stealth application.

Keywords

• Microwave absorber
• IFSMS
• Frequency selectivity
• Programmable surface
• Radar cross-section (RCS)
• X and Ku bands