Design of high performance multilayer microwave absorbers using fast Pareto genetic algorithm

The application of the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm Ⅱ (NSGA-Ⅱ) in designing microwave absorbers is described in this paper. To obtain high performance coatings,we put forward three cost functions,which represent three objectives of strong-absorption,broad-bandwidth and thin structure,and study the tradeoffs between each other. Numerical calculations on available materials in 2―18 GHz are implemented to construct the Pareto front and Pareto-optimal surface for two and three objectives respectively. Results indicate that the NSGA-Ⅱ can work more efficiently and effectively than traditional Pareto genetic algorithms. Additionally,we present several particular designs from the above Pareto front (surface) for potential applications in different frequency bands. For example,a four-layer absorber with thickness of 2.8071 mm is obtained to provide average reflection coefficient of -11.95 dB and average reflection bandwidth of 0.5780 in 2―18 GHz,considering arbitrary incident angles (0°―89°) and both TE and TM polarizations.