Comparison of coherent and non-coherent scattering models for stratified media

摘要

The scattering and emission within a multi-layered dielectric structure can be described by either a coherent or non-coherent process. This work compares the effective reflectivity (the square of the field reflection coefficient) obtained from using a coherent transmission-line equivalent model and a non-coherent scattering formulation. The scattering models are compared with HFSS simulations and approximation errors are investigated. Coherent models are more prone to error due to the oscillatory nature of the approximation. As layer thicknesses approach infinity the approximation error becomes negligible and the coherent and non-coherent models become identical. Non-uniform layer temperature effects are explored for the non-coherent scattering model. As layer temperatures increase, the effective reflectivity decreases.