Rational design and fabrication of optically transparent broadband microwave absorber with multilayer structure based on indium tin oxide

A multilayer metamaterial absorber (MMA) with optically transparent and broadband microwave absorption characteristics based on Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) was designed and fabricated. The microwave absorption properties can be regulated by the resistance of ITO and the structural parameters of the unit cell. In the frequency range of 2.64-18 GHz, more than 90 % microwave absorption can be achieved. The microwave attenuation mechanism was investigated through equivalent electromagnetic parameters, impedance matching, electric and magnetic field distribution, power loss density and layer electric current at special frequencies. The microwave absorption performance at different incident angles under TE and TM polarization models was investigated to explore the angle-sensitive properties. The average transmittance of the absorber in the visible light wavelength range (400-800 nm) was also measured. The experimental and simulated microwave absorption rates are in accordance, indicating the potential application of the proposed absorber in the field of transparent microwave absorption.(c) 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

A transparent multilayer metamaterial absorber (MMA) with broadband microwave absorption characteristics based on Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) has been designed and fabricated. By adjusting the resistance of ITO and the structural parameters, the microwave absorption properties can be controlled and achieve more than 90% absorption in the frequency range of 2.64-18 GHz. The microwave attenuation mechanism, angle-sensitive properties, and visible light transmittance were investigated, and the experimental and simulated results are consistent, indicating the potential application of this absorber in transparent microwave absorption.