Binomial multi-layer coconut shell-based rubber microwave absorber design

Abstract

This paper presents results of a study on multi-layer binomial radar absorbers constructed from rubber latex using coconut shells as fillers. The microwave properties of the absorbers were measured using a microwave non-destructive testing (MNDT) technique. The performance of single layer, two-layer and three-layer absorbers were simulated using a commercial 3D electromagnetic simulator. Single layer and two-layer absorbers have bandwidths of 11% and 8% respectively, while the three-layer absorber exhibited the widest bandwidth of 85%. The effect of carbon content and the absorber thickness has been studied and show that increasing absorber thickness and carbon content in the samples shifted the reflection frequency while the bandwidth remained.