Optimization of a PML absorber's conductivity profile using FDTD

The conductivity profile of a perfectly matched layer (PML) absorber is optimized to increase the absorption performance. The key parameters describing a polynomial‐type conductivity profile for an anisotropic PML absorber are optimized by employing a steady‐state genetic algorithm (SSGA). A Gaussian line source is used for excitation in free space in order to minimize local error. The optimum polynomial parameters are reported for PML absorbers of various layers. Numerical results show that PML absorption can be improved by at least 7–15 dB, independently of the space‐domain and grid sizes. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 37: 380–383, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.10924