Resistive fractal FSS based broadband radar absorber

Abstract

A novel broadband circuit analog radar absorber using three-layer resistive fractal frequency-selective surfaces (FSS) is described. The radar absorber is designed with weight and thickness constraints. Using the innovative concept of embedded passives (EP) resistors, a large number of resistors which are essential for absorption have been designed and integrated into the FSS substrate, totally dispensing with soldering of discrete passives. The ultra wideband radar absorber is simulated using the high-performance 3D electromagnetic (EM) simulation software, HFSSTM. Extensive parametric studies are carried out to study the effect of various design parameters on the performance. The resistive FSS layers are designed and developed as electrically thin printed circuit boards (PCB), and highly accurate photolithographic technology is used for fabrication. Simulation results are verified by performing RCS experiments on the panel RAM. Monostatic RCS experiments are carried out on the panel RAM in microwave anechoic chamber. A minimum radar cross section reduction (RCSR) of 10 dBsm has been realized from 3 to 12 GHz. © 2014 Springer India.