Resolving scattering in complex media: a hybrid THz model for multilayer building materials

Area of Science:

• Electromagnetics and Wave Propagation
• Materials Science
• Telecommunications Engineering

Background:

• Accurate terahertz (THz) scattering models are crucial for developing next-generation wireless systems like 6G.
• Existing models for multilayer building materials are often oversimplified or computationally intensive, hindering practical application.
• Understanding THz wave interaction with diverse building materials is essential for reliable indoor 6G network deployment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, accurate, and computationally efficient terahertz scattering model for multilayer building materials.
• To address the limitations of current scattering models in terms of simplicity and computational cost.
• To provide a robust tool for the design and simulation of indoor 6G networks and THz imaging systems.

Main Methods:

• Introduction of a hybrid multilayer scattering model combining a recursive method for coherent scattering and the scalar Kirchhoff approximation for incoherent scattering.
• Integration of a physics-based coefficient to manage power distribution between coherent and incoherent components.
• Validation of the model against experimental data for complex laminated materials.

Main Results:

• The proposed hybrid model demonstrates a significant reduction in root-mean-square error, up to 89.6%, compared to experimental data.
• The model accurately captures the scattering behavior of complex laminated building materials.
• Achieved a balance between physical robustness and computational efficiency.

Conclusions:

• The developed hybrid terahertz scattering model offers a physically sound and efficient solution for modeling multilayer materials.
• This model is a valuable tool for the advancement of indoor 6G network design and THz imaging technologies.
• The improved accuracy and efficiency pave the way for more reliable and sophisticated THz applications.