RF Absorbers: Application Guide

RF Absorber for 6G

Microwave Absorbers Required in the 6G Era

Microwave absorbers required for the 6G era must accommodate high-frequency signals in the terahertz band (100 GHz or higher) and possess the performance to mitigate unwanted reflections and interference that could hinder high-speed, high-capacity communications.

This is expected to enable new functions such as the expansion of communication coverage into air, sea, and space, ultra-low power consumption, and ultra-high reliability, as well as the realization of advanced services that integrate cyber and physical spaces.

Main Types and Characteristics of RF Absorbers for 6G

To stabilize communication in the 100 to 320 GHz sub-terahertz band, 6G applications require thin, lightweight, broadband, and high-frequency compatible microwave absorbers.

The primary types are:
(1) Resistive: Utilizing conductive materials for stable, broadband absorption;
(2) Dielectric loss: Converting high-frequency dielectric loss into heat to allow a thinner form;
(3) Magnetic loss: Achieving high absorption from low to millimeter-wave bands using materials like ferrite;
(4) Metamaterial: Utilizing artificial structures to enable high-efficiency absorption at specific frequencies. For 6G applications, development is underway for composite absorbers that combine these technologies to optimize performance.

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How to Select the Right RF Absorber?

The RF absorber market is expanding rapidly, driven by the increasing need for EMI (Electromagnetic Interference) reduction in 5G/6G, autonomous driving, and defense applications.

This site provides comparative information on products and manufacturers by application to help you identify the ideal solutions for R&D, anechoic chambers, and high-frequency testing.

Lineup of 6G-Compatible RF Absorbers

EC-SORB® ECP-3

EC-SORB® ECP-3
Source: Microwave Factory Official Website
(https://ece.co.jp/products/absorber/ecp3.html)

These absorbers are primarily used in RF anechoic chambers and radar test ranges used for the development and evaluation of 5G/6G communication equipment and automotive radar systems. By delivering exceptional absorption performance in the millimeter-wave band, they enable higher measurement accuracy for high-frequency communication devices. Lightweight and flexible, these absorbers feature hook-and-loop fasteners for easy installation and removal, allowing for rapid and flexible reconfiguration of testing environments.

Manufacturer Name Microwave Factory
Frequency range 3GHz to 320GHz
Absorption performance Up to 50 dB
Size Approximately 61 cm × 61 cm, height 8.3 cm
Material Urethane foam

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Microwave Factory's
RF absorbers

Mini-Compact Range

Mini-Compact Range
Source: Microwave Vision Group Official Website
(https://www.mvg-world.com/en-US/products/antenna-measurement/compact-ranges/mini-compact-range)

This range of absorbers is optimized for applications including millimeter-wave to sub-terahertz band antenna measurements, OTA testing, and automotive radar evaluation. It enables high-precision measurement of high-gain antennas and compact devices by effectively suppressing reflections and multipath interference. Its compact footprint and superior portability facilitate easy relocation between different laboratory environments. Combined with high shielding effectiveness and a dynamic range exceeding 80 dB, it ensures consistent, reliable results even for 6G high-frequency measurements.

Manufacturer Name Microwave Vision Group
Frequency range 4 GHz to 110GHz
Absorption performance Up to 80 dB
Size 41 cm × 41 cm / 60 cm × 60 cm / 100 cm × 100 cm
Material Aluminum + absorber lining

Reference: Microwave Vision Group Official Website(https://www.mvg-world.com/media/2437/download/reference)

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Microwave Vision Group's
RF absorbers

WAVASORB® VHP

WAVASORB® VHP
Source: AP Americas Official Website(https://www.apamericas.com/absorber/)

Supporting 6G, millimeter-wave, and terahertz bands up to 500 GHz, this product is ideal for RF anechoic chambers, compact ranges, OTA testing, RCS measurements, and automotive radar. Its broadband, high-absorption characteristics minimize reflections and multipath interference, ensuring a high-precision environment for sensitive measurements. In addition to being lightweight and easy to install, it is highly effective in flame retardancy and complies with environmental standards (REACH/RoHS), ensuring safe operation over a long service life.

Manufacturer Name AP Americas
Frequency range 100 MHz to 500 GHz
Absorption performance Approximately 20 dB to 55 dB
Size Standard 61 cm × 61 cm
Material Carbon-loaded urethane foam

Reference: [PDF]AP Americas Official Website(https://www.apamericas.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/WAVASORB-VHP-JUN2023.pdf)

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AP Americas'
RF absorbers

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