An Introduction to Radar Absorbent Materials (RAM)

Abstract : The purpose of this Introduction is to present, in a straightforward way, the electromagnetic principles of Radar Absorbent Materials (RAM) for the benefit of the non-electromagnetic-specialist who finds himself involved in this field. The fundamental theory of electromagnetic wave propagation in media and at the interfaces between different media is reviewed and the various approaches to absorber design are described in the light of this. The types of materials required and the techniques for measuring both their electromagnetic properties and the performance of the finished absorber are outlined. Finally, a means of designing absorbers from a knowledge of the properties of its constituent materials is described.