Theory, Modeling, Measurement, and Testing of Electromagnetic Absorbers: A Review
Ala A. Abu Sanad, Mohd Nazri Mahmud, Mohd Fadzil Ain, Mohd Azmier Ahmad, Nor Zakiah Yahaya, Zulkifli Mohamad Ariff
Abstract
In the era of the fifth generation (5G) and the Internet of Things (IoT), electromagnetic interference (EMI) poses a significant challenge. The rapid growth of wireless communication applications leads to increased electromagnetic (EM) pollution, which can have adverse health effects. To address this issue, electromagnetic absorbers (EMAs) play a critical role in eliminating EMI and reducing EM pollution between electronic devices. The focus is now on developing diverse microwave absorbing materials (MAMs) with different structures to cover a wide range of frequencies while remaining cost‐effective and effective at high angles of incidence radiation. This article comprehensively reviews EMAs, highlighting their design parameters and importance in achieving high‐efficiency absorption. The review covers absorber theory, structure, materials for various frequency ranges, and the mechanisms responsible for dissipating electromagnetic waves (EMWs). Analytical and numerical methods for modeling and analyzing EMAs are discussed, along with performance indicators and testing methods. The role of absorbers in different applications is explored, and emerging research directions for enhancing microwave absorbers are also highlighted.