Introduction of high‐performance yarns into super‐composites based on three‐dimensional woven structures to enhance their electromagnetic absorption properties

Abstract High‐performance electromagnetic absorption (EMA) materials were becoming increasingly in demand as radar technology advances. One significant way to increase the performance of EMA composite structures was through flexible design. In this work, three‐dimensional (3D) woven preforms with varying absorption layers and structures were woven on an ordinary loom. Subsequently, the vacuum‐assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) molding method was used to prepare 3D woven EMA materials with good EMA capabilities. Then, experimental research examined the impact of varying fiber yarns, absorption layers, and incidence angles ( θ ) on the EMA characteristics of the 3D woven EMA materials. Lastly, Computer Simulation Technology (CST) electromagnetic simulation was used to simulate the optimal experimental result and Radar Cross Section (RCS). The results demonstrated that changing fiber yarn structure of 3D woven EMA materials can significantly improve the EMA capabilities of the 3D woven EMA materials. Simultaneously, the EMA capabilities of the 3D woven EMA materials was influenced considerably by the number of the absorption layers and the incidence angle of the electromagnetic wave. For example, the six‐layer 3D woven EMA materials (A(A 2 C) 3 C) with carbon fiber yarns introduced in the Z‐direction yarns achieved an effective absorption bandwidth of up to 8.34 GHz at a thickness 9 mm. At an incidence angle of 90°, the most excellent reflection loss value of −44.25 dB could be attained. At the same time, the shortcomings of the experiments were further optimized by CST, and RCS understood the suitability of the EMA materials. This study provided a vital research methodology for designing and developing high‐performance EMA materials. Highlights 3D preforms were woven on an ordinary loom. The VARTM was used to prepare 3D woven EMA materials. Introduction of carbon fiber yarns to improve EMA capabilities. The shortcomings of the experiments were further optimized by Computer Simulation Technology. Understood the suitability of the EMA materials by Radar Cross Section.