Experimental and Theoretical Investigation of RF Absorption and Reflection From Preformed Plasmas

Abstract : This report constitutes the final progress report for a program of experimental and theoretical research on the reflection, absorption, and scattering of VHF and microwave radiation from plasma-covered conductors. A principal goal of this research is to determine to what extent plasmas can be used to reduce the radar cross-section of highly rf-reflective objects. The major goals of this program have been: (1) To study rf absorption and reflection from a plasma-covered plane conductor to determine under what conditions the presence of the plasma can result in a significant reduction in the backscattered rf; (2) To conduct such studies under a wide range of plasma (overdense and underdense) and rf (frequency, power density, and pulse duration) conditions; and (3) To establish a solid theoretical foundation for the understanding of experimental observations.