High-Frequency Three-Dimensional Electromagnetic Modeling Using Vector Finite Elements

We have developed a three-dimensional electromagnetic (EM) modeling algorithm using vector finite elements. Modeling of the EM field using the finite element method (FEM) has the problem of spurious solutions, the so-called 'vector parasite', originating from the discontinuity of normal electric fields at boundaries. We use vector elements to eliminate this vector parasite problem seen in nodal formulations. To verify the developed 3-D EM modeling algorithm, we compare the results for a layered-earth model with the analytic solution. As expected, the vector based FEM model developed in this study does not have any vector parasite problem. We used a frequency of 100 MHz to test the applicability of our program to the simulation of high frequency EM surveys. Fields calculated for a model with a dielectric anomaly are well matched with the layered-earth ones. Finally we applied our algorithm to a model with a purely dielectric anomaly, and investigate the behavior of field through 3D vector plots.