Optimization of gradient core radomes

This paper addresses optimization of gradient core radomes, whose physical representations have additively manufactured honeycomb cores with tapered wall thickness. However, to simplify the analysis, the gradient core is considered to consist of multiple homogeneous layers with individual permittivity. These layers constitute a permittivity profile which is optimized such that the reflections from the gradient core layers cancel the reflections from the composite skins, which are reinforcing the structure. It is demonstrated that gradient core radomes can be optimized for large bandwidth, low transmission loss as well as low flash lobe level.