Periodic stepped metamaterial design: A novel RCS reduction strategy combining wave absorbing materials

Electromagnetic wave absorbers are increasingly engineered to exhibit low density, minimal thickness, and wide effective absorption bandwidths. However, realizing effective broadband absorption continues to present significant technical challenges. This study demonstrated a metamaterial-based ceramic matrix composite featuring periodic stepped configurations, systematically investigating its broadband absorption characteristics and stealth performance through integrated simulation and experimental validation. The fabrication process combined material optimization with structural periodicity design, producing a prototype that delivers a 4.69 GHz effective bandwidth at 1.90 mm and a peak reflection loss of −15.36 dB at 2.00 mm. Notably, our square periodic stepped configuration delivered a substantial bandwidth of 10.67 GHz. Additionally, radar cross section simulations further confirmed the stealth performance enhancement through periodic structural modulation, with observable suppression effects across tested frequency bands, which showed potential for next-generation stealth technologies, particularly in aerospace applications requiring multispectral compatibility.