Optimization of PDMS -MWCNT nanocomposites for strong Ku-band absorption by integrating microwave simulations and genetic algorithm

Abstract

This study combines genetic algorithm (GA) and microwave simulations to optimize the thickness of polymer nanocomposite layers for microwave absorption. The solution processed polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-multi wall carbon nanotube (MWCNT) nanocomposites are studied in the Ku-band (12.4–18 GHz). The most promising reflection loss (RL) characteristics (minimum RL value or RLmin, and RL ≤ -10 dB bandwidth) were found for bi-layered PDMS-MWCNT nanocomposites with MWCNT composition of 3 vol% and 1.5 vol% at an optimal thicknesses of 1 mm and 1 mm (overall thickness 2 mm), respectively. The simulated data match well with experimental data viz., the recorded RLmin value was −28.5 dB with an excellent RL ≤ −10 dB bandwidth of 4.5 GHz, indicating suitability for real time Ku-band applications. On the other hand, an appreciable RL value of −44.5 dB was found for single layer (3 vol% MWCNT) with a 2.5 GHz absorption bandwidth at a thickness of 6.4 mm. The error analysis of the simulated and experimental data was also carried out and it was found to be in the acceptable region (≤3 dB). © 2023 Elsevier Ltd