Abstract
In this study, we propose an optimized design using a honeycomb core coated with conductive material and nickel electroless plated glass fiber to enhance radar absorption performance in broadband and reduce radar cross-section (RCS) as a function of incidence angle, particularly for trailing edge geometry of aircraft wings. A honeycomb core coated with a conductive material displays propagation absorption performance through a conductive loss mechanism and multiple scattering. Its electromagnetic wave absorption characteristics were analyzed using coating resistance and thickness variables. The foam-based radar-absorbing sandwich composites comprised of glass fiber/epoxy composite, polymethacrylimide (PMI) foam, and nickel-plated glass fiber/epoxy composite, and the design with optimized impedance and reflection coefficient through transmission line theory and genetic algorithm presented 90% wave absorption performance in a broadband frequency range. The field influence of HH and VV polarization was analyzed under high-angle incident electromagnetic wave conditions, revealing that the proposed wing trailing edge geometry radar absorber structure exhibits superior RCS performance. The results of this study indicate that the proposed wing trailing edge radar absorbing structure has the potential to significantly enhance RCS performance in complex geometries such as those found in aircraft wings.