Explore the top 5 common materials used for electromagnetic wave absorption: iron, graphite, rubber, polymers, and water.
Common Electromagnetic Wave Absorption Materials
Electromagnetic waves are energy waves that can pass through the air and vacuum. However, certain materials can absorb these waves, thereby reducing their intensity. This article lists five of the most commonly used electromagnetic wave absorption materials.
1. Iron
Iron, in various forms, has long been utilized as an effective electromagnetic wave absorber. It’s often used in radio wave absorption, in the forms of iron powder and ferrite, both of which exhibit strong magnetic properties that can draw in and absorb electromagnetic waves.
2. Graphite
Known for its exceptional conductivity, graphite is a carbon-based material that can absorb radio and microwave radiation effectively. It is often used in stealth technology, where the goal is to absorb and scatter radar waves to avoid detection.
3. Rubber
Specifically, rubber that has been loaded with carbon or metal particles can absorb electromagnetic waves effectively. The flexibility of rubber makes it ideal for applications where absorption material needs to be moulded into various shapes.
4. Polymers
Polymers loaded with metallic particles or magnetic materials are widely used in electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding. They can also serve as an excellent electromagnetic wave absorption material, due to the interaction between the polymers and the metallic or magnetic inclusions.
5. Water
Water, particularly salt water, is a surprisingly effective absorber of electromagnetic waves, particularly in the microwave and infrared ranges. It’s for this reason that submarines, which operate under water, primarily use sound (sonar) for navigation rather than radio waves.
Understanding the unique absorption properties of these materials can help in the design and implementation of a wide range of technologies, from electronics to telecommunications, and even stealth and military technologies.
