A cubic array structure with enhanced absorption bandwidth

In this paper, we proposed a novel cubic array microwave absorption structure based on 3D printing technology. Based on this structure, we used carbonyl iron powders (CIPs), carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and amorphous graphite as microwave absorbing materials for simulation respectively. Among these three materials, the cubic array absorber based on CIPs has the best comprehensive absorption effect in simulation, so we carried on its mechanism analysis and experimental verification furtherly. The cubic array structure was validated to be effective in broadening the absorption bandwidth and reducing the surface density, as compared to the single-layer plate structure. The experimental results show that more than 90% of the absorption is achieved in the frequency band 6.2–18 GHz with a total thickness of 3 mm. And the surface density of the sample is only 0.586 g cm−2. Therefore, the cubic array structure provides guidance for broadening the bandwidth of the absorber and improving its practical application ability.