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Radio wave absorbers: TDK launches environmentally sustainable radio wave absorbers using biomass material

2024-05-30 | Return

>Officially approved by the Japan BioPlastics Association (JBPA)
>By including more than 25 wt% of biomass material, it enables a reduction of CO₂ emissions by 13% compared to conventional products

TDK Corporation announces its new radio wave absorber IS-BP series, containing more than 25 wt% of biomass material, making it an environmentally sustainable option that enables CO₂ reduction. Mass production started in April 2024.

Microwave anechoic chambers are used to evaluate antennas and wireless communication equipment, as well as millimeter-wave radar for AD and ADAS. The ceiling, walls, and floor of the microwave anechoic chamber are covered with radio wave absorbers.

TDK’s radio wave absorber IS-BP series is made of foamed polyethylene with carbon dispersed in it; it absorbs radio waves by utilizing ohmic loss of the carbon. The shape is pyramidal with lengths available 12 cm and 30 cm depending on the frequency range used.

The absorption performance of the IS-BP series is equivalent to that of conventional products. Additionally, extensive testing has shown that the IS-BP series is as strong and durable as traditional products and is equally non-flammable.

The new IS-BP series contains over 25 wt% of biomass polyethylene derived from sugarcane, replacing petroleum-derived polyethylene. TDK is committed to maximizing its contribution to the creation of a sustainable society by working alongside its customers in a wide range of applications, including automotive, ICT, and industrial equipment. The new absorber material was developed in response to the growing demand of supply chain partners to show compliance with climate change initiatives. This new sustainable product is certified by the JBPA and has been shown to reduce CO₂ emissions by 13% compared to conventional products.

Main applications

>Microwave and EMC anechoic chambers for evaluation of antennas and wireless communication devices, and evaluation of mmWave radar for AD/ADAS, EMC measurement above GHz band

Main features and benefits

>Environmentally sustainable radio wave absorber using biomass material
>Approved by the JBPA
>Contains more than 25 wt% of biomass material
>CO₂ emissions can be reduced by 13% compared to conventional products
>Equivalent performance and flame retardance to conventional products

Key data
Typical absorption performance at certain frequencies (normal incidence); Unit: dB

Product Name	0.8 GHz	1 GHz	3 GHz	5 GHz	10 GHz	30 GHz	50 GHz	110 GHz
IS-012A-BP	20	20	30	40	55	55	55	50
IS-030A2-BP	30	35	45	50	55	55	55	50

Source: https://www.tdk.com/en/index.html